25th April 2005
NEWS RELEASE
Norwich radiographer suspended by UK Health Regulator

A radiographer from Norwich has been suspended by the Health Professions Council.

A panel of the Conduct and Competence Committee met to consider the case of Matthew Smith on 22nd April 2005. They heard that his fitness to practice as a registered health professional is impaired by reason of his conviction at Norwich Crown Court on 22nd November 2004 on 11 counts of 'Making indecent Photograph or pseudo photograph of child'.

Sandy Yule, the chair of the panel, said....."The panel finds that Mr Smith's fitness to practise is impaired based on his conviction for 11 counts of making indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child, which in fact he himself admits.

"In considering the sanctions available to it the panel has taken into account the nature and the severity of the conviction. We take into account his admission and contrition and the fact that he is supported by excellent written testimonials, speaking highly of his good character and professional competence.

"Mr Smith is in breach of the Health Professions Council's Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics, in particular standard number 3, relating to high standards of personal conduct, and standard 16, ensuring that a registrant's behaviour should not damage his profession's reputation by undermining public confidence.

"The panel is imposing a suspension order for 1 year in order to make clear the gravity of the offence to both the public and the profession's reputation".

The Health Professions Council is a UK wide health regulator set up to protect the public. It sets standards for thirteen health professions. The HPC only registers people who meet its standards for their professional skills, behaviour and health, and will take action against people who do not.