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The registrant faced a life-changing temporary suspension order from the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) after allegations of misconduct against a colleague. As the family’s primary breadwinner and with his visa tied to working as a Social Care Assistant, the proposed suspension would have caused severe financial distress. It could have led to the deportation of the registrant, his wife, and their young child. To protect his interests, Regulatory Defence represented him at the virtual hearing.

Regulatory Defence, in collaboration with Kevin Saunders from 23 Essex Street Chambers, provided expert legal advice and representation at a competitive price. A review of the SSSC’s documentation showed insufficient evidence to support their claim that a temporary suspension was necessary. The SSSC alleged patient safety risks, potential for repeated behaviour, and significant public protection concerns, but the evidence did not support these claims.

After a pre-hearing conference with Counsel and Regulatory Defence, the registrant presented a strong rebuttal to the panel. He argued that the investigation’s concerns did not justify a suspension and that the proposed sanction was disproportionate and unsupported by the evidence.

Thanks to Kevin Saunders’ expert submissions, the panel ultimately decided that suspension was unnecessary. Instead, they imposed interim conditions of practice. This decision allowed the registrant to continue working, supporting his family, and remaining in the country where they had successfully integrated into the community.

If you have received notice of an investigation into your fitness to practice or an interim order hearing, contact Regulatory Defence for a no-obligation telephone consultation to see how we can assist.