AN investigation is under way after a mental health nurse was accused of abusing a patient in a care home.

The nurse was suspended from Abigail Lodge Care Home, in Delves Lane, Consett, County Durham, and has subsequently resigned.

An investigation has been launched by care home owners Four Seasons Healthcare.

A spokesman said: "As a result of our comprehensive whistle-blowing policy issues were highlighted, which we are currently looking into.

"A member of staff was suspended and subsequently resigned from the company. The relevant authorities have been informed."

The two 30-bed units at Abigail Lodge Care Home were built and opened in 1995.

One unit is for convalescence and palliative care and the other is for people with dementia.

Durham County Council confirmed it was also investigating the allegations.

Lesley Tickell, head of adult services at the council, said: "We are at present making further inquiries with regard to this matter.

"As always, safeguarding issues are viewed as being extremely serious and whenever necessary, appropriate measures will be taken."

The matter could be referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council, which has the power to strike people off the nursing register.

It could also be reported to the police if it is thought a criminal offence has been committed.

The Commission for Social Care Inspection, which inspects and regulates care services across England, has also been informed.

A spokesman said: "We have just been notified of an allegation, as required under regulation 37 of the care homes regulations 2001.

"As part of our inspections, we look at information from complaints and recommendations arising from investigations, and make requirements for improvement, or take enforcement action, where necessary.

"It is too early to say what action, if any, we will be taking in relation to this matter."

Last month, The Northern Echo reported that a care home worker had been sacked after mobile phone footage emerged of her abusing elderly people at a home in Sherburn Hill, County Durham.

Andrew Dismore, the chairman of the Joint Select Committee on Human Rights, has said a "complete change of culture" into the way elderly people are looked after is needed.