AN occupational therapist at a secure mental health unit has admitted striking up a sexual relationship with an inpatient.

Valerie McLeod, 54, worked at Gisburn Lodge, a 16-bed medium secure unit near Clitheroe, when she met the man - who was being treated at the unit.

Over a three month period, the pair engaged in sexual activity on the premises, while the man was under the care of Gisburne Lodge, and McLeod was an employee.

McLeod, of Belgrave Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a man with a mental disorder by a care worker and one count of causing sexual activity with a man with a mental disorder by a care worker.

The unit provides care for men with learning difficulties and personality disorders who require support in a secure setting.

It opened in 2009 and provides occupational therapy at the heart of its service.

At the time of the offences, McLeod was employed by Mersey Care - which provides specialist NHS mental health services - as an occupational therapy assistant.

McLeod will return to Preston Crown Court on July 14 to face sentence.