A former care home employee has been handed a community order after admitting to an offence committed at a staff Christmas party.
Twenty-eight-year-old Roy Thumma, who was employed at Bucklesham Grange Care Home in Suffolk, appeared before Ipswich Crown Court following an incident at a festive gathering in December 2022.
The court heard that during the party, held at the Curve bar, Thumma approached a woman who was standing at the buffet table. He placed his hands around her waist and allegedly attempted to kiss her without consent.
Thumma, of Crawford Avenue, Staines-upon-Thames, denied sexual assault but admitted the lesser charge of battery. The incident, which took place on 9 December 2022, has since resulted in him receiving a nine-month community order, which includes a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and 40 hours of unpaid work. In addition, he was fined £400.
Judge Martyn Levett addressed the court, stating that alcohol had played a significant part in the events of that evening. He warned that the case served as a reminder to members of the public about the disinhibiting effects of alcohol, particularly in workplace-related social events.
The court was also told that Thumma had no previous convictions and has since moved on to a new career as a chef, no longer being employed at the care home.
This case has drawn attention to the responsibilities of staff when attending work-related functions. It highlights the importance of respectful behaviour and the potential consequences of actions fuelled by excessive drinking during the Christmas break. For those working in care, where trust and professionalism are central, maintaining appropriate conduct in and outside of the workplace remains critical.
The sentencing outcome reflects the court’s decision to balance the seriousness of the offence with Thumma’s previous good character and his acknowledgment of wrongdoing through the guilty plea to battery.
The case ultimately demonstrates how the justice system addresses incidents of inappropriate behaviour in social settings while reinforcing the message that personal accountability remains key.
