Staff suspended in abuse probe

Published on 06/09/2012 17:40

A number of staff at a Derry care unit have been suspended as police investigate allegations of the “mistreatment” of vulnerable young adults.

Local health chiefs have revealed that the anonymous abuse claims centre on Ralphs Close at Gransha Park which was officially opened earlier this year by the North’s Health Minister, Edwin Poots.

The unit offers support and care for young adults with learning disabilities.

Police confirmed they had received reports of allegations regarding “mistreatment” of residents at Ralphs Close.

A police spokesperson said: “An investigation into these allegations is currently ongoing. There are no further details at this time.”

At a press briefing this afternoon, Trevor Miller, the Western Trust’s Director for Adult Mental Health and Disability, revealed that a number of staff had been suspended as a “precautionary” measure as part of the investigation.

He also made a public appeal for anyone with any information to come forward to either the police or the Trust.

See tomorrow’s ‘Journal’ for more.

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Staff suspended in abuse probe

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