Police investigation at Dame Hannah Rogers centre for disabled

Some adult services run by a charity for people with disabilities have been suspended after a police investigation was started at a Devon centre it operates.

The Dame Hannah Rogers Trust centre in Ivybridge is under investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police amid concerns over safeguarding.

The police investgation is part of a multi-agency inquiry involving Ofsted and the local authority, Devon County Council.

Ofsted has said it has temporarily suspended services at the unit while further enquiries are carried out. This suspension will last until at least September 16, and could be extended further.

Devon County Council is planning alternative care arrangements for residents and after the action was taken earlier this week.

Councillor James McInnes, Devon County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for children, schools and skills, said: “We are very concerned about the difficulties this disruption in service places on children with very high needs and their families.

“We are working with regulators and all other authorities to find solutions to this situation as quickly as possible. We want to ensure the highest quality care for our most vulnerable children and adults and we place their safety at the upmost importance.”

Hannahs has sites in Ivybridge and Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot and provides learning, care and support to children and adults with a range of disabilities.