A SENIOR midwife at Carlisle's Cumberland Infirmary has been struck off the nursing register after being convicted of “stockpiling” medication.
Sandra Drinkald received a striking-off order and an interim suspension of 18 months after she was convicted of theft from her workplace and possession of codeine, morphine and cannabis between November 2022 and April 2023.
As a result of her actions, Ms Drinkald received a 12-month community order in July last year at Carlisle’s Rickergate court.
A hearing heard how Ms Drinkald referred herself to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) following her convictions, but did not attend the final hearing held at the end of September.
In an email to the NMC, she wrote: “I would really love to try and fight my case. I am truly sorry for what I did and accept that it was damaging to my beloved profession.”
The inquiry heard evidence of Ms Drinkald's 'stressful work environment' during the period and five 'positive testimonials of a longstanding career'.
However, the NMC panel considered the severity of Ms Drinkald's "pattern of misconduct over a number of months."
They noted that her actions were premeditated actions with a "longstanding deception" in stealing the drugs which "depleted the stock available to patients."
The inquiry concluded: "Balancing all of these factors and after taking into account all the evidence before it during this case, the panel determined that the appropriate and proportionate sanction is that of a striking-off order.
"The panel considered that this order was necessary to mark the importance of maintaining public confidence in the profession, and to send to the public and the profession a clear message about the standard of behaviour required of a registered midwife."
In a statement from North Cumbria Integrated Care Trust, a spokesperson said: “Sandra Drinkald’s actions came to light because of our drug management procedures and the alertness of colleagues. As soon as we became aware we notified the police and cooperated fully in their investigation.
“She was suspended when the issue came to light and following a disciplinary hearing was dismissed by the Trust.”
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