Social worker alleged to have abused partner's children

A social worker has been suspended while police and Child, Youth and Family investigate allegations of sexual abuse involving his partner's children.

Child, Youth and Family (CYF) confirmed today the social worker, who works at one of the agency's Christchurch branches, was under investigation.

He is accused of abusing at least one of his partner's children. He is understood to have entered a relationship with the woman while working for CYF.

"Child, Youth and Family and the police are working together on this matter and as such, the department is unable to comment on an ongoing investigation," CYF's southern regional director, Paula Attrill, said in a statement released to NZPA today.

"The Department stresses, however, that it takes all instances of potential wrongdoing extremely seriously and will take all appropriate steps following this investigation," she said.

The children the social worker is accused of abusing are understood to be under the age of 12.

CYF will also investigate how he started a relationship with the woman while working as a social worker.

- NZPA