21/11/05 - Probe into care home abuse claims

Inquiries are taking place into allegations that residents at a care home in Kent were physically abused by a former member of staff.

The claims were made in respect of three residents at privately-owned home Strood.

Medway Council said the member of staff in question had resigned their post.

It also said police were investigating. The Bondcare Group - which runs the home - confirmed an "allegation of possible abuse".

The Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI), is also involved in the inquiry.

The allegations have not so far been substantiated but police are investigating Medway Council statement

Medway Council said: "We will be contacting the relatives of the three residents allegedly involved in the incidents."

A statement from Bondcare said residents at the home remained safe and well cared for by the "excellent team of dedicated staff".

"A further statement will be released upon the findings of the inquiry," the group added.

The council said it was informed of the allegations by staff at the home.

"An investigation under the Adult Protection Procedures is under way into those allegations," a council statement said.

"The member of staff against whom the allegations have been made has resigned their post and has been provisionally referred to the Protection of Vulnerable Adults Register, pending further investigation.

"The allegations have not so far been substantiated but police are investigating."

The Bondcare Group runs 46 care homes in England and Wales.

Source : BBC