A former staff member at a Rotherham activity centre has appeared at Sheffield Crown Court accused of persuading a vulnerable woman to hand over part of her compensation award. Prosecutors say the transfers amounted to £16,000 taken while the defendant was employed as a manager working with vulnerable adults.
Allegations of misuse of position of trust
The prosecution says Kathryn Kelwick, 55, abused a position of trust during her time at Swinton Lock Activity Centre in Rotherham. She denies a single count of fraud. The court was told the complainant regarded Kelwick as both a support worker and friend and that Kelwick encouraged her to make a claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
The CICA application was successful, receiving payments in two instalments. The Crown says the complainant transferred money to Kelwick in two separate transactions: £11,000 in September 2021 and £5,000 in May 2022. The total alleged to have been taken is £16,000.
| Payment date | Amount | Context |
|---|---|---|
| September 2021 | £11,000 | After first compensation instalment |
| May 2022 | £5,000 | Following second instalment; note attached |
Conflicting accounts
In interview with police, the defendant said the money had been given as part of a friendship. The complainant later told the court that she had felt pressured and that boundaries had been crossed by Kelwick. A note accompanying the second transfer included the single word: "enjoy", the jury heard.
"She got in my head. That's what it all went down to,"
The defence has offered a different account, telling the court there was a serious dispute between the two women in June 2022. Counsel for Kelwick said the complainant had pushed her during an argument, causing bruising, and later sent abusive messages. The defence also advanced the argument that the complainant regretted making the transfers and had characterised the compensation as "dirty" money she did not want.
Local implications and practical information
The case highlights concerns about safeguarding and the vulnerability of people receiving compensation following abuse. The trial continues at Sheffield Crown Court. Those with concerns about financial abuse of vulnerable adults in Rotherham should contact Adult Social Care services at Rotherham Council or the local police. Charities working with vulnerable people are reminded of their safeguarding obligations and the importance of clear boundaries between professional support and personal relationships.
- Defendant: Kathryn Kelwick, 55, of Eilam Road, Rotherham
- Allegation: One count of fraud relating to transfers totalling £16,000
- Court: Sheffield Crown Court
The proceedings remain active and further details will be reported as the trial progresses.
