Five members of staff at a day care centre for vulnerable adults have been suspended after welfare concerns were raised.
An investigation has now been launched into the running of Morley Tamblyn Lodge at Liskeard in Cornwall which provides services for people with learning disabilities.
The centre, part of Cornwall Council’s Community and Support Services, is used by around 60 people.
It is being kept open during the investigation but will be run with a reduced service.
Judith Haycock, the council’s portfolio holder for Adult Care, Health and Wellbeing, said: ‘This is a very serious issue.
“As always our priority is to ensure that we maintain safe services and protect individuals.’’
Cornwall Council said: “We are in close contact with people who use the service and their families and discussions are taking place with them to find alternatives where possible.
“Suspending staff does not mean any allegation is proven or that any suspended member of staff is related to all the allegations made.
“We have a duty to thoroughly investigate all concerns that are brought to our attention and this is happening through the multi-agency Safeguarding Adults process.’’
Cornwall Council leader John Pollard, added: “Our priority is to improve the quality of council run services and ensure that we protect vulnerable people in Cornwall.
“The chief executive has assured me that this review will be completed as a matter of urgency and the findings reported to members as quickly as possible.”