A helpline has been made available to concerned people following the conviction of a Wareham man who had previously worked in a number of health settings across Dorset.
Dr Rupesh Seth was today sentenced to three years and three months following an investigation by Surrey Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team and the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, having previously pleaded guilty to a number of offences.
Dr Seth had previously worked at GP practices in and around Bournemouth along with placements at local hospitals before his arrest in November 2020.
There is no evidence that patients have been put at risk.
Debbie Simmons is Chief Nursing Officer with NHS Dorset. She said “The actions of Dr Seth are inexcusable. Every child has the right to grow up safe from harm and all partners work closely together to try and achieve this across the county and beyond.
“The NHS in Dorset worked closely with Surrey Police to protect the public, leading to Dr Seth’s rapid suspension from practice.
“Our understanding is that this was an isolated incident and we would like to stress that there is no evidence that patients of Dr Seth have been put at personal risk at any time.
“If anyone has concerns or would like support, a dedicated phone number has been provided 01305 368072.
“This conviction brings online safety to the forefront of people’s minds and we would remind anyone who has concerns or is approached online in this way to report it.”
During weekend hours please leave your details and a member of the team will call you back.
For further support and advice, please contact the National Association for People Abused in Childhood https://napac.org.uk/
Any further allegations regarding Dr Seth should be directed to Dorset Police.
