Edinburgh social care worker struck off by watchdog after working under 'false identity'
Margaret Munzara submitted a copy of a false passport when applying to join the social services register in 2011
An Edinburgh social care worker has been struck off by the sector watchdog after it was discovered she had used a fake identity to register for work.
In March last year, Margaret Munzara was convicted under the Identity Documents Act 2010 of possessing a false passport that was improperly obtained, which she used to apply to the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) to work as a support worker in a care home in 2011.
According to a decision note published by the SSSC, Munzara purposely concealed her true identity from the regulator by submitting a copy of the false passport, including a false name and date of birth.
It detailed how Munzara had falsely answered ‘no’ when asked directly whether she had ever been known by any other names.
She was found to have submitted the false information when she applied to work in another area of the care sector in 2019.
The SSSC said the seriousness of Munzara’s actions, which spanned 15 years, was of the “highest level” and they had put vulnerable individuals receiving support at risk of harm.
The council stated: “The behaviour seriously compromises your professional values and the ability of service users and their families to place trust and reliance in you.
“Individuals receiving care and support in their own homes have the right to expect honesty and integrity from social service workers, and to be able to trust them.
“Your conduct is serious abuse of the trust and confidence placed in you as a social service worker.”
Munzara was brought before Edinburgh Sheriff Court on March 25 last year.
The SSSC has now issued her a removal order, which makes it an offence for an employer to employ her in any role that requires registration.
The council said it was the only appropriate sanction given the “clear pattern of behaviour” she had displayed and the risk she posed to vulnerable clients.