A SOCIAL worker has been struck off after watching pornography on his work computer more than 1,000 times. 

The Health Care and Professions Council heard how John Jackson, based in Witham, was found to have watched adult pornography on his work computer 1,296 times between May 2012 and May 2013.

This was equal to 40 per cent of his internet use. 

Jackson was seconded to the North Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust as a senior practitioner social worker in the Criminal Justice Mental Health Team in 2001.

He admitted the allegation during an investigation and a disciplinary hearing was held in 2013.

Jackson was initially suspended from his post and unsuccessfully appealed the decision. 

A report from the review hearing on Thursday said: "On June 17, 2013 concerns were raised about the registrant’s inappropriate internet use. 

"A significant percentage of his monthly internet usage was falling within the pornography category.

"A report was prepared which detailed the internet usage by the Registrant between May 2012 and May 2013. 

"The report showed that visits to the websites containing adult pornographic material accounted for 40 per cent of his internet use in this period."

A spokesman for Essex County Council said: “The behaviour of the former Essex County Council social worker John Colin Jackson was unacceptable and completely in contravention of professional standards as well as those governing the use of computer equipment.

"Mr Jackson was dismissed by ECC in August 2013 following a ruling by the Health and Care Professions Council that he was guilty of misconduct."