The Lancashire force said they had been contacted by the Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust on 8 November over allegations of mistreatment and neglect of patients at the stroke unit of Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

A police spokesman said: “A healthcare professional was arrested in relation to these allegations.

“She was arrested on suspicion of administering a poison or noxious thing with the intent to injure and ill treatment or wilful neglect.”

The woman, who was bailed to 6 December, has been suspended.

Detective Chief Inspector Jill Johnston said: “This arrest is part of an on-going investigation into allegations of mistreatment of patients by a healthcare professional at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

“The inquiry is complicated and we have a team of specialist detectives working on this case who are also offering support to those families who have had loved ones identified as potentially being involved.

“Our priority and the priority of Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is to ensure the safety of patients.”

Wendy Swift, chief executive of Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We can confirm a healthcare professional has been suspended in line with Trust policy following allegations of mistreatment against patients on the Stroke Unit.

“We take all allegations of this type extremely seriously and when the concerns were raised we immediately contacted the police.

“The Trust is working with the police and co-operating fully with their investigation.

“We would like to reassure all our patients that all necessary actions are being taken. The hospital remains a safe and caring environment for patients and the provision of services will continue as usual.”

Anyone who wishes to report any concerns should call 01253 952270 between 8.30am and 5pm.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log reference 0553 of 14 November.

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