Coed Duon staff suspended over 'inappropriate' messages

Seven staff at a children's care home have been suspended following allegations "inappropriate" text messages were sent on WhatsApp.

BBC Wales understands they were removed from duties by the owners of the Coed Duon home in Blackwood.

Gwent Police and Caerphilly council social services officials are aware and will meet next week.

The home said it suspended staff immediately and took "decisive action" to protect young people in its care.

BBC Wales has been told the WhatsApp messages did not involve images.

A spokesman for the home, owned by Keys Childcare, said: "We immediately suspended a number of staff on being alerted to allegations relating to the inappropriate exchange of text messages in WhatsApp.

"The relevant authorities were also immediately notified in line with good practice and statutory requirements.

"This decisive action was taken in accordance with our robust policies and procedures and allows us to safeguard the young people in our care while we and the relevant authorities investigate the matter."

The Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales, which regulates childcare and social services, has been asked to comment.