A social care worker from Powys Council, Rolf Trendell, has been convicted and subsequently removed from his position for sexually assaulting a woman by forcibly kissing her on the lips without her consent. Trendell, who worked at a children’s home since 2012, was suspended from his post following the allegations that surfaced in 2022. The incident, where he kissed the woman on the lips claiming it was a gesture of gratitude, led to a criminal conviction and a professional panel questioning his suitability to continue working in a social care setting.
The Fitness to Practise panel of Social Care Wales heard how Trendell’s actions had a lasting impact on the victim, with her now feeling afraid to leave her own home. Despite Trendell’s attempts to justify his behaviour as an innocent “air kiss,” the panel found him guilty of sexual assault without consent. The victim’s fear and trauma following the incident were highlighted in an impact statement during the hearing.
In a separate criminal conviction at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court last year, Trendell was found guilty of touching a woman inappropriately without consent. He was fined, ordered to pay compensation to the victim, and was subjected to a five-year restraining order as a result of this conviction. The panel reviewing his case concluded that Trendell had not shown remorse or reflected on his actions, posing a significant risk in any future social care work.
Chair of the panel, Caryl Davies, emphasised that Trendell’s conduct raised serious concerns about his ability to work in a social care environment. As a result, an immediate removal order was issued, barring Trendell from practicing in the social care sector and removing him from the professional register with immediate effect. This decision aimed to protect vulnerable individuals in care settings from any potential harm or misconduct by Trendell.
The case of Rolf Trendell serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding professional standards and ethics in social care work. Such incidents not only have legal repercussions but also impact the trust and well-being of those under the care of social care workers. The swift action taken by the professional panel in this case underscores the commitment to safeguarding individuals and maintaining the integrity of the social care profession.
Instances of misconduct or abuse by individuals in positions of trust highlight the need for robust safeguards, oversight, and accountability measures within the social care sector. By addressing such cases promptly and decisively, regulatory bodies can uphold standards of professionalism and ensure the well-being of vulnerable individuals receiving care services. The expulsion of Trendell from his role sends a clear message that misconduct will not be tolerated within the social care profession.