Sick-leave worker had emigrated

A THERAPIST who went on sick leave from his NHS job was sacked when it was discovered he had emigrated to Thailand.

Benedict Ciappara worked as an occupational therapist for Surrey Primary Care Trust where he would assist people suffering memory loss and mental health issues. However, he failed to tell bosses at the trust of his move to Thailand, spending six weeks on sick leave. His absence led to a lack of cover on an acute mental health ward, putting colleagues at risk.

Today Mr Ciappara was struck off the Health Professions Council register in his absence for failing to inform the trust of his intentions.