POLICE are investigating allegations of abuse by care workers at one of Glasgow’s main care firms.

The Evening Times understands 10 support workers from care firm Community Lifestyles have been suspended pending the result of the investigation.

The company was ranked as the favoured provider by Glasgow City Council in a recent care tendering exercise, coming in first place for providing care for the elderly, disabled people and children with disabilities.

Police received a report in April last year relating to abuse of a vulnerable service user at their home and have been investigating the claims for the last 10 months.

A source said the allegations relate to “verbal and physical abuse of at least one, but potentially more” vulnerable clients at the firm, which is a subsidiary of Key Housing Association.

The source added: “These people should not be working with vulnerable clients. It’s absolutely disgusting.”

Staff, who receive up to £8.70 per hour for their work, have been suspended but the company declined to say if they were still being paid.

A spokeswoman from the care company said: “The wellbeing of the people we support is paramount.

“Following allegations being made, the staff identified were suspended.

“The police are still investigating the situation and until such time as this is concluded, we are unable to comment further.”

On the company’s website, it states all clients should “Be treated with dignity and respect” and “Be safe from any form of abuse, exploitation and discrimination.”

The company has provided care for some of the city’s most vulnerable residents after being selected as one of Glasgow City Council’s social care support providers.

In the local authority’s latest

In their latest inspection report by the Care Inspectorate in February 2015, Community Lifestyles was rated “excellent” for support and staffing, and “very good” for management.

A police spokeswoman said: “We received a report in April and we are investigating.

“It would be inappropriate to further comment at this time.”

A spokesman from Glasgow City Council’s social work department said: “ We initiated adult support and protection procedures when we were notified of these allegations.

“However, as there is an police investigation currently underway, it is inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

The Care Inspectorate also said they had been made aware of the situation.

A spokesman said: “A concern has been raised with us about this service and we are considering all information given to us carefully.

“We are continuing to work closely with Community Lifestyles - Glasgow East.

“Anyone with concerns about a care service should contact the Care Inspectorate on 0345 600 9527.”