A care worker who raped a vulnerable woman and sexually assaulted a care home resident has been banned from the profession indefinitely.
Robert Wilson, 53, sexually abused a 68-year-old vulnerable female resident while working at a facility in East Lothian. The offences took place between 2022 and 2023. He was also found guilty of raping another vulnerable 38-year-old woman in 2013, with court papers stating he attacked the woman to her injury.
Eight-year sentence
Wilson was jailed for eight years at the High Court in Edinburgh in April, after being found guilty of the crimes at the same court earlier that month.
Following his jail term, he was brought before the Social Services Council (SSSC) this week. The watchdog ruled his misconduct and offending as "exploitative" that amounted "to a significant and serious abuse of trust".
SSSC ruling
A statement from the SSSC reads: "You have been convicted of serious sexual offences, namely rape and sexual assault. The behaviour which led to your conviction was sexually abusive, exploitative and amounted to a significant and serious abuse of trust.
"Your behaviour is likely to have caused the complainers to suffer emotional, physical and psychological harm. Your behaviour is fundamentally incompatible with that expected of registered social service workers who are entrusted to safeguard and promote the welfare and wellbeing of the people they support."
Wilson was banned from working in the profession indefinitely.
Police response
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Constable Emma Maurer said: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with the women and their families affected by this appalling breach of trust. Those in care are among the most vulnerable members of our community, and have the right to feel safe, respected and protected.
"These women showed immense strength in coming forward about the abuse they suffered. The offences committed by Wilson were deeply distressing for the women. Sexual abuse of this nature will never be tolerated, and this case demonstrates that those who exploit individuals will be pursued and held accountable for their actions.
"I would urge anyone who has been a victim of physical or sexual abuse to report it to us, regardless of when it happened. All reports are thoroughly investigated, and we have specially trained officers and partner agencies who will support you throughout."
