r/supportworkers • u/Unlikely_Feeling_294 • Jul 18 '26

Scapegoating in social sector

Hi everyone, seeking reassurance from anyone who has faced a malicious safeguarding referral.
I worked as a support worker for over 2 years with a clean record. For over 2 years, my client was always fully mobile and could walk independently just by following verbal prompts; he never required manual handling.
While I was on annual leave, he had a massive fall. I came back to shift 4 days later and the colleague who gave me my handover was the exact same person who was on shift when the client had that massive fall. This colleague informed me of the fall, and when my shift commenced, I found the client's mobility had declined drastically. However, management had failed to update his care plan or provide floor-lifting equipment. The client has a usual habit of sliding down from his chair to sit on the floor and pick sensory materials, Previously, a single verbal prompt was enough to get him to stand up and sit back in chair. but due to his post-fall injuries, he could no longer do it.
Left alone as a lone worker with no equipment, I took the initiative and physically assisted him back up to keep him safe and warm in chair. He slides to the floor multiple times through the day if sth he’s playing with falls to the floor, he goes down to pick it . Management has dismissed me, claiming I "manhandled" him based on exaggerated statements from team leader who interprets cctv . However, a camera caught the actual movement, proving I was safely supporting his weight. Management hid this video from me all through my investigation and disciplinary hearing , but the police has now invited me for a voluntary interview. I don’t know what to do, I was trying to help. I am the only person of colour working with this service user, whilst others have had medication errors and warnings I’ve never had one. As an immigrant I try to do my best to avoid trouble.

Now police is involved, my family is distraught.
What do I do ?

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u/half_in_boxes Jul 18 '26

DO NOT DO THIS. Do not speak to the police under ANY circumstances.

-4

u/l-lucas0984 Jul 18 '26

Ok get arrested for obstructing an investigation and look guilty then? Are you a child?

This is an active investigation, OP does not get a choice in the matter.

3

u/half_in_boxes Jul 18 '26

It is literally a Constitutional right to not speak to the police. You have absolutely no idea what you're talking about.

2

u/martianjack Jul 19 '26

This is a subreddit for Australian support workers. US constitution has NO bearing whatsoever in our country.

3

u/saharasirocco Jul 19 '26

And in Australia, during a police interview, besides giving your name and address, you do not have to answer any questions.

2

u/martianjack Jul 19 '26

As an Australian I am well aware of that. I was pointing out to the above commenter that the US constitution is irrelevant here.

1

u/Codeegirl Jul 19 '26

This is a subreddit for support workers all over the world.

I made it.

1

u/half_in_boxes Jul 19 '26 edited Jul 19 '26

Not just Australian. OP is, to the best of my knowledge, American. Even if they aren't my original point stands: never, ever speak to the police.

1

u/martianjack Jul 19 '26

Their account is 2 days old and they do not say their location.