Care staff suspended over 'assault'

Residents are being rehoused, possibly in Gainsborough

Five members of staff have been suspended amid allegations of assault and neglect at a private care home in Grimsby.

The claims have been made against staff working in the specialist care unit at Littlecoates House, which is owned by CKB Builders.

The allegations are being investigated by Humberside police, North East Lincolnshire Council and the National Care Standards Commission.

Police have arrested three staff on suspicion of assault, who have since been released on bail.

The home's specialist nursing unit, which caters for people with mental health problems, is due to close on 2 June due to staff shortages.

A spokesman for North East Lincolnshire Council said: "We are providing help for the home while this inquiry is ongoing, such as staff to keep it running.

"We are also helping to find other homes for the residents and are looking at places in Gainsborough."

The closure will affect 18 residents, although the home's other unit will remain open. The owning company, CKB Builders, was not available for comment.