A NEWPORT based carer stole £900 from vulnerable adults was suffering from anxiety and depression, a court heard.

Kirsty Phillips, 34, was sentenced to a 12 month supervision order at Cardiff Crown Court yesterday (tue). She had pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to two counts of theft and one count of ill treatment or wilful neglect of an adult who lacks capacity.

Phillips stole £300 and £600 from two different victims during her time as a mental health carer from 2012 to early 2013.

The court heard how Phillips had cared for six vulnerable women with mental health issues including personality disorder and psychosis at a supported living home in Newport. She was off sick in December 2012 from stress and had been admitted in January 2013 to the Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil due to the illness.

Andrew Jones, for the defence, said: "It is ironic perhaps your honour that Miss Phillips was in charge of looking after vulnerable adults when she was herself vulnerable. She has had a breakdown and continues to be seen by mental health services.

"She pleaded guilty and takes full responsibility of her behaviour. She is disgusted by her behaviour and is ashamed of her actions not only for herself but for her family."

The court heard that Phillips has since repaid the victims the sum of money which was taken. Mr Jones told the court that she suffered anxiety and depression and was currently being prescribed medication.

Judge Philip Richards, said: "You had an obligation to these people who were vulnerable. You were a vulnerable person yourself.

"It goes without saying the normal sentence would be a term of imprisonment. This is an extreme case.

"I am satisfied that you have suffered from your actions."

Phillips of Shingrig Road, Nelson, will be require supervision for the next 12 months and will have to carry out nine sessions with a provision officer.