Scots sheltered housing worker made sexual remarks to colleagues

A sheltered housing worker in Scotland has been reprimanded for making sexual comments towards colleagues, including wrapping his hand around one colleague’s neck. Raymond Matthew, employed by Aberdeenshire Council, was found to have engaged in inappropriate behaviour during a training course on August 10, 2022. The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) disclosed that Matthew made several explicit comments, such as remarking on a woman’s appearance and demonstrating a handling technique by placing his hands around her neck. Additionally, he made sexualised remarks towards other individuals attending the course.

The SSSC has issued Matthew with a warning that will be recorded on his registration for a year. The council condemned his actions as an abuse of his position and causing distress to his colleagues. They expressed concerns about his lack of values and respect for fellow social services workers. The decision highlighted that although Matthew’s behaviour may not have been sexually motivated, it was deemed inappropriate and failed to show respect to the colleagues he was tasked with training. The comments and actions were perceived as intimidating and threatening by those present.

The SSSC’s ruling stated, “Your actions indicate concerns about your values and respect for colleagues working in the social services sector. You were responsible for providing training to three female colleagues and have abused this position, causing alarm to those colleagues. This is a breach of the trust placed in you by your employer and colleagues. Your behaviour falls below the standards expected of a member of a caring and trusted profession.”

Matthew’s warning from the SSSC serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in the workplace, particularly in roles involving vulnerable individuals.

In summary, the case of Raymond Matthew highlights the significance of upholding ethical conduct in the workplace, especially within social care settings where individuals may be in vulnerable positions. It serves as a reminder for all professionals to maintain appropriate boundaries and respect towards colleagues and those they serve. Such instances underscore the need for clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms to ensure a safe and respectful work environment for all.