A mental health nurse from Liverpool received a caution after sending inappropriate texts to a 16-year-old patient. Claire Kitson allegedly sent “protestations of love” and warned the girl not to show the messages to anyone, saying, “or I could go to prison.” Working at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Kitson’s texts included words like “Love you to bits” and even hinted at adopting the girl. She reportedly bought vapes for the teenager and messaged her outside of working hours, blurring professional boundaries.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council found her conduct crossed the lines of professionalism, impacting the mental health of the young patient, who was already receiving treatment. Although some allegations, like purchasing razor blades or having a sexual motive, weren’t proven, the inappropriate texting was enough for the panel to impose a three-year caution order against Kitson.
Alder Hey Trust acted swiftly once aware, removing Kitson from unsupervised duties and terminating her contract. They’ve stressed their commitment to patient safety and offered support to the young patient and her family.
Kitson expressed remorse and demonstrated insight into the implications of her actions, which the panel recognised, reflecting on the seriousness of maintaining professional standards in such sensitive roles.