Helplines have been set up for concerned patients, parents and guardians following the arrest of a doctor on suspicion of sexual assault.

The 34-year-old was first investigated in 2018 when he was working in the accident and emergency department at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, but no action was taken by police, who said there was “insufficient evidence”.

In a statement, Staffordshire Police said: “A 34-year-old man, from the West Midlands, was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault in December 2021.

“He was released on bail with conditions pending further enquiries.

“An investigation is ongoing. Staffordshire Police is also reviewing an investigation into the same suspect it undertook in 2018, at which time there was insufficient evidence to take further action.

“An Independent Office For Police Conduct (IOPC) self-referral has been made by Staffordshire Police in regards to the 2018 investigation.”

A spokesperson for the IOPC said they had assessed the referral and decided the force should continue to deal with the matter.

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In 2020, the doctor moved to Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley where, as well as the A&E department, he worked in obstetrics and gynaecology.

It is understood he would have treated hundreds of patients, including children.

The medical directors at both hospitals confirmed to Sky News that the doctor no longer worked for them and said they were unable to comment further as they were “working closely” with police.

The General Medical Council said the doctor was suspended in October.

Officers and the NHS have set up “Operation Anzu” to look at the doctor’s work at both hospitals, and Staffordshire Police said some patients may already have received a letter regarding this.

University Hospitals North Midlands said a helpline was available for patients on 01782 672540.

A separate one has been set up for patients from the Dudley hospital on 01384 322 311.

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