CONCERNS FOR CARE SECTOR STAFF PROMPTS MULTI-AGENCY VISITS IN RYDE

Concerns for staff working in the care sector on the Isle of Wight led to a multi-agency operation in Ryde yesterday (Monday). As part of efforts to safeguard individuals, Police were joined by Home Office Immigration, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and the Isle of Wight Council in visiting a number of addresses in the town. A decision to visit properties in the Monkton Street and Osborne Road areas was prompted by concerns raised with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and its partners, it’s said. Island Echo understands that concerns had been raised with the Home Office, Trading Standards and the Care Quality Commission in recent weeks about ‘sponsorship deals’ offered to foreign nationals. Although no criminal offences were identified during yesterday’s visits, follow-up enquiries are to be conducted by all agencies involved.