CRIEFF SUPPORT WORKER STEVEN MACDONALD BANNED AFTER SHOCKING ABUSE INCIDENTS

A support worker based in Crieff has been permanently removed from the care register following a series of deeply troubling and unprofessional behaviors that have raised serious concerns about his suitability to work with vulnerable individuals.

Steven MacDonald’s misconduct came to light after investigations by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) into multiple incidents involving a service user. During these incidents, MacDonald engaged in actions that are considered highly inappropriate and abusive. One of the most disturbing acts involved him exposing his backside to the individual, an act that is both unprofessional and deeply disrespectful.

In addition to this, MacDonald made inflammatory and degrading comments about the service user. He referred to the man as a “weirdo” and falsely claimed that he was “covered in bird s***,” remarks that serve to demean and dehumanize the individual. MacDonald also made disparaging remarks about the way the person was lying in a swing, describing it as “not how you lie in a f****** swing,” further illustrating his lack of respect and understanding.

Furthermore, the support worker physically assaulted the service user by pushing him in the chest and then placing him in a headlock. He also engaged in inappropriate physical contact by rubbing his knuckles on the man’s head and, in a particularly disturbing act, told the individual to smell his feet. These actions demonstrate a pattern of aggressive and disrespectful behavior that is entirely unacceptable in a care setting.

Most alarmingly, MacDonald pulled down his trousers and underwear in front of the service user, exposing his own backside. Such behavior is not only unprofessional but also highly inappropriate and potentially traumatic for the vulnerable individual involved.

The investigation conducted by the SSSC in 2023 concluded that MacDonald’s conduct showed a clear lack of care and respect for the person he was supposed to support. The report highlighted that his actions could have caused both physical harm and emotional distress, emphasizing the serious breach of trust and professional standards.

When questioned by his employer, Randstad, MacDonald denied all allegations and showed no remorse or willingness to apologize for his actions. His refusal to acknowledge the severity of his misconduct contributed to the decision to take disciplinary action.

As a result of the investigation’s findings, the Scottish Social Services Council has imposed a ban on MacDonald, preventing him from working within the UK social services sector. The authority underscored that such behavior fundamentally conflicts with the core values of care work, which include dignity, respect, and compassion. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining professional standards and safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable individuals in care settings.