'Toxic staff culture' at mental health unit where police are investigating alleged mistreatment of patients

A "toxic staff culture" exists in an NHS mental heath unit, it is claimed. It is also alleged that patients at the Edenfield Centre in Prestwich, Bury, were abused.

As reported in the Manchester Evening News police have started an investigation into the allegations and staff have been suspended. The claims involve 40 patients and 25 staff.

A letter issued by Greater Manchester Mental Health Trust, which runs the unit, says the claims stem from "secret filming" conducted by Panorama between March and June this year. It adds: "The BBC has not allowed us to view the contents of the programme in advance of broadcast."

The programme is due to be screened this evening and the Trust letter to stakeholders, says: "It appears in general terms that Panorama may allege unprofessional, unsafe, and uncaring practices with a focus on staff shortages, language and communication with patients and inappropriate use of restraint practices. We believe the BBC will allege a neglectful approach to the provision of services at the Edenfield Centre and a toxic staff culture."

It adds that the information provided by the programme relates to approximately 40 patients and 25 staff. The Trust says it is taking the allegations "very seriously" and has taken action since they came to light in early September.

The Edenfield Centre which has eleven wards for male and female patients has been closed to new admissions and detailed clinical reviews of affected patients are being conducted to ensure their safety. It has 600 staff and caring for around 200 adults with referrals from across the country.

Additional advocacy support for patients, their carers and their families and extra senior clinical and operational management have been deployed to the