A CHILDRENS home is once again at the centre of controversy, a year after sex abuse claims were first made public.

In December last year, the News Shopper broke the story highlighting concerns about the home in Betts Way, Anerley, when a member of staff was suspended pending the results of a police investigation.

But as the joint investigation by the NSPCC and the police continues, reports are emerging in the national media that four former staff are suspected of abusing at least 40 victims at the respite centre, which was shut down in March.

If the allegations are true, hundreds of people with learning difficulties may have been at risk of sexual abuse at the care home which was run jointly by Bromley Council and Ravensbourne NHS Trust.

Though files are to be sent to the Crown Prosecution Service, it is debatable if any prosecutions will go ahead, as few cases of abuse involving children with learning disabilities ever get to court.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed its child protection team is continuing an investigation, but could not describe the scale of the allegations.

The abuse allegedly took place over a period of 12 years at the home, which provides respite care to children aged 11 to 18 with learning difficulties.

A spokesman for Bromley Council said: Every effort is being made to safeguard confidentiality to protect the children throughout this process.

Matters cannot be made public until the investigation is concluded and the Crown Prosecution Service has considered if there is enough evidence to warrant further action.

She added: Bromley Council and Ravensbourne NHS Trust are making every effort to support families and the staff throughout this difficult period. We have provided alternative support at other suitable homes in the borough.

The NSPCC was unable to comment about the investigation.