AN investigation has been launched into security staff at the healthcare trust that runs Furness General Hospital (FGH).

Three security workers at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) are under investigation for alleged 'inappropriate behaviour' towards vulnerable patients.

The alleged incidents have been reported to the police, local safeguarding officers, and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) - the UK government's executive non-departmental health and social care regulator.

A report to the trust's board last week said: “Three incidents have been reported in relation to security staff and alleged inappropriate behaviour when supporting wards care for vulnerable patients.

“All incidents are subject to an investigation and an overarching thematic review will be completed to identify any areas for learning and improvement….Security staff concerned are currently not employed at the trust and further training being delivered to all security staff in relation to supporting patients with dementia or who may lack capacity.”

Neither the trust nor Cumbria Police could confirm details of the alleged acts or the pending investigation.

UHMBT did not specify at which of its acute health centres the incidents occurred. However, it confirmed the incidents did not take place at FGH.

Sue Smith, Executive Chief Nurse and Deputy Chief Executive Officer for UHMBT, told The Mail 'immediate' action had been taken as part of the trust's response to the alleged incidents.

She said: "An investigation is currently underway following three incidents that have been reported this year in relation to security staff and alleged inappropriate behaviour when supporting wards that care for vulnerable patients at UHMBT.

"All incidents are subject to an investigation and an overarching thematic review will be completed to identify any areas for learning and improvement.

"Immediate actions have been taken to safeguard our patients and staff and the Care Quality Commission has been informed and kept updated."

The CQC was also approached for comment but had not responded at the time of publication.