UK Social Worker Suspended for Imposing Beliefs on Vulnerable Teen

A Nigerian social worker in the UK shared how a newly recruited colleague on a Certificate of Sponsorship was suspended after a safeguarding session with a 15-year-old girl on a child protection plan. During a session, the teenager disclosed she was sexually active. The social worker reportedly expressed her personal cultural and religious views, suggesting such behaviour was shameful back home and encouraging the girl to embrace Christianity. The young person became distressed and later self-harmed, requiring hospital treatment. It emerged she already had a history of mental health challenges. The colleague was suspended pending review but kept her role after full cooperation and transparency. The case highlights the challenges international professionals may face when adapting to UK safeguarding standards. It underscores the need for anti-oppressive practice, child-centred intervention, and respect for professional boundaries. New practitioners are urged to complete statutory training, seek managerial guidance, and understand UK expectations.

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