This week, I represented a social worker at an interim order application hearing. Social Work England were applying for a suspension order to stop my client working whilst they carried out their fitness to practice investigation.  Most cases involving interim orders concern allegations of misconduct; however, my client's case involved an allegation that my client's consumption of alcohol impaired their practice.  There were two referrals from two different employers and so, not an easy case.  My client did not attend the hearing and instructed me to attend and make submissions in their absence.

After considering the material before them, including my detailed submissions, the panel imposed, in response to Social Work England's application for an 18-month suspension order, a conditions of practice order - for three months!

This is an unheard of length for an interim conditions of practice order - I've never heard of any interim order of that length and I must confess, I was rendered speechless by this result!

As the testimonial given by my client (LM) says, I took this case when I was in the middle of another case, but I was able to make time for them and ensure we got a fabulous outcome.

Although I have a great deal of experience in the fitness to practice field, I could never say I've seen everything - and cases like this make that quite clear!