THE husband of one of the women suspended pending a police inquiry at the care home at 51-53 Mollands Lane has spoken to the Gazette of the pressure his wife is under.

The man, who did not want to be named, said: "The last six months has been a living hell for my wife. I know and she knows that she is innocent but she is helpless.

"We couldn't go away in the summer and Christmas has been very depressing.

"My wife has decades of service in the care industry, as do the other women. She now feels her career is in ruins.

"The one thing I do not understand is why after six months, the police haven't interviewed any of the women? How long can this take?"

The investigation is being dealt with by the Domestic Violence Unit at Grays Police Station.

PC Tess Wisbey said: "Investigations such as these are extremely thorough and detailed."

Director of Supported Housing and Care for Estuary Housing, Kathryn Bennett said: "We believe in a rigorous and transparent system regarding the protection of vulnerable people. We are happy to co-operate with all the agencies in this matter.

"We have offered a system of support for the suspended staff."