I have watched Silent Witness for years and think it is a great British drama, highlighting the complexities of varied lives, circumstances and how forensics contribute towards crime solutions. However, i have to say that I was very saddened by the portrayal of the social worker in series 18 double episode 3 of 5, Protection". Social workers undertake such important roles in this society, protecting and bettering the lives of severely abused and neglected children; improving the lives of vulnerable adults with mental health issues and learning disabilities, contributing to stability to those affected by cognitive brain disorders (dementia, Alzheimer's's), caring for older adults and those at the end of their life course - including hospice care, and so much more. unfortunately, as a profession, we have had to put up with so much negative media attention, which only goes to reinforce the general public's disdain and hatred of social workers - the majority of whom do a very good job. as in ALL professions, there are always those who don't live up to the high standards expected; however, social work is scrutinised beyond levels of acceptability in so many circumstances. 'Damned if you do, damned if you don't', I believe one recent documentary was entitled.This theme continued in this particular episode of Silent Witness, where a social worker, armed with information suggesting that a child's bruising was due to medical reasons, ignored this in favour of removing the child from his parents and placing him in to care. This was quite remarkable, although not surprising, and the researchers clearly wanted to follow the accepted public vilification of social workers, who somehow, have this sudden power to 'do what we like' despite evidence to the contrary. where was the opposition from the child's Guardian, the parents' lawyers, the health professionals, and, most importantly, the Judge? If this had been presented to the Judge - only s/he could make the decision to grant an order for removal - NOT the social worker! it's about time social workers were given a fair portrayal and the media should consider how many lives are SAVED and improved as a direct result of social work intervention. No one is perfect, but social workers do make a difference, in a positive way, to thousands of lives each year.