PETER MORRISON GUILTY OF VIOLENT ATTACKS IN GLENROTHES - SCOTLAND

A support worker from Glenrothes, Peter Morrison, has been handed a four-year warning after being found responsible for a series of violent assaults against a woman. The incidents, which involved physical attacks and aggressive behavior, took place outside of his professional duties, according to the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).

Despite the severity of his actions, the SSSC clarified that Morrison's misconduct occurred outside his employment, and there is no evidence to suggest he behaved similarly while working as a care assistant. Fife Council, which employed Morrison, also provided a highly positive reference regarding his conduct within the workplace, emphasizing his commitment to his duties and adherence to care standards.

Peter Morrison was convicted at Dunfermline Sheriff Court in 2021. The court heard that during one assault in September 2018, Morrison grabbed the woman, pushed her onto a sofa, and applied pressure to her head and eye sockets, causing her significant distress. The violence did not stop there; between February and May 2021, Morrison continued to abuse the same woman through various aggressive acts. These included pushing her onto a couch, using his elbow to exert pressure on her body, and again applying force to her head and eye sockets with his hands.

In addition to physical violence, Morrison also engaged in verbal abuse. He attempted to throw a phone at the woman, made offensive remarks during a phone call, and sent repeated text messages filled with offensive language. His behavior escalated to shouting, swearing, and issuing threats towards her, creating a pattern of intimidation and control.

The Scottish Social Services Council has responded by imposing several conditions on Morrison’s future conduct. These include mandatory attendance at domestic abuse awareness training and conflict management courses. The purpose of these programs is to help Morrison better understand managing his emotions and responses in difficult situations, with an emphasis on preventing future harm.

Furthermore, Morrison is required to submit a reflective account detailing how his actions may have impacted the woman and what he has learned about domestic abuse and its effects on victims. The SSSC noted that Morrison provided only limited insight into his behavior during discussions with Fife Council. Despite the seriousness of his actions, the council emphasized that these incidents occurred outside of his work environment and there is no indication of similar behavior during his employment.

Fife Council, which has been involved in overseeing Morrison’s conduct, reaffirmed its commitment to responsible employment practices. Sharon McKenzie, the head of HR at Fife Council, stated, “As a responsible employer, Fife Council does not comment on the individual circumstances of either current or former employees.” The council’s focus remains on maintaining high standards of care and ensuring the safety and well-being of service users and staff alike.