Broadmor care worker arrested over alleged sex with inmate

A therapy assistant at Broadmoor Hospital has been arrested over allegations she had sex with an inmate, police said today.

The 29-year-old woman was suspended when details emerged about the alleged incidents, said to have taken place at the top-security hospital over summer. She has since resigned.

Thames Valley Police arrested the woman on Friday on suspicion of being a care worker engaged in sexual activity with a mentally disordered person. She was released on bail until December 7, pending further inquiries.

An internal investigation has also been launched at the psychiatric hospital in Crowthorne, Berkshire.

A spokeswoman for West London Mental Health NHS Trust, which Broadmoor Hospital belongs to, said in a statement: "Where there is any question that patients and staff are involved in or subject to inappropriate behaviours, prompt action is taken under the hospital's disciplinary procedure and where necessary, the hospital offers full support to the police in any enquiries or action which may follow.

"Our overarching concern is to protect the safety and rights of the vulnerable people in our care."

She added that the woman was not a nurse, but an unqualified member of staff.

Last month, Rhoda Sibanda, a former nurse at Broadmoor, was given a suspended prison sentence after admitting having a sexual relationship with a patient.