John Williams used his position of trust as a team leader and acting team manager at Welham House, Spilsby, to withdraw money from Mark Woodrow's account.


Williams had access to the PIN number and bank card belonging to Mr Woodrow, 35, who suffers from cerebral palsy and learning difficulties,


Williams made more than 60 withdrawals from cash point machines stealing a total of £6,500.


Williams, 51, of Ida Road, Skegness, was jailed for 18 months after admitting theft between September 2003 and April 2005.


Judge Michael Heath told him: "Your victim had cerebral palsy and learning difficulties. To describe him as vulnerable is an understatement.


"What you did was despicable. It was a most serious breach of trust and one that can only result in a custodial sentence."


Victoria Lorne, prosecuting, said the offences came to light after Williams left his job at the care home.


A member of staff who checked the victim's bank account discovered there was far less money in it than there should have been.


Further investigations revealed 64 withdrawals of cash had been made from the account which had not been recorded.


Williams denied he was responsible when the matters were put to him by police in the summer of 2006.


In January 2007 he was again interviewed but told officers: "It was nothing to do with me".


But moments before his trial was due to start in March this year he pleaded guilty.


Martin Knight, defending, said apart from a drink driving conviction 30 years ago Williams was a man of good character.


"This offence has turned his life upside down. He has found obtaining work difficult and will no longer be able to work in a position of trust. He is genuinely remorseful."


He said Williams was struggling with the breakdown of his relationship at the time he committed the thefts and he is now suffering from financial problems due to his inability to find work.

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