AN investigation has been launched into claims a nurse sexually assaulted a patient at a mental health unit.

Police were called to Basildon Mental Health Unit in Nethermayne, Basildon, after a male patient made the claims against a nurse.

The trust which runs the unit is also investigating after a complaint was made about the treatment a patient received.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, told the Echo he was taken from his home to the unit by police officers and paramedics for treatment after suffering from a mental health episode.

He then claimed while receiving treatment at the hospital, which is operated by the Essex Partnership University Trust, a female nurse put her hand down his trousers.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers are investigating following reports of a sexual offence at an address in Nethermayne, Basildon.

“It is believed to have occurred just before 10am on Sunday, March 17.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

The Basildon mental health unit, which is next to Basildon Hospital offers acute adult inpatient service and provides 24-hour treatment and care for people experiencing acute mental health episodes which cannot be managed in a less restrictive setting.

After police were called an internal investigation was also launched.

The trust declined to comment on whether the member of staff had been suspended.

However a spokesman for the Essex Partnership University Trust (EPUT) confirmed they were aware of the allegations and were assisting police with the investigation.

The spokesman added: “We are investigating an allegation of sexual assault and are working with Essex Police.

“We cannot provide any further comment at this stage.”

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101 quoting incident number 0471 of March 17.

Anyone affected by this story can find information and support available via SupportLine - a confidential support service - by visiting www.supportline.org.uk