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Schools have suspended hundreds of teachers and support staff amid confusion over child protection rules in England, an investigation by ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ Radio 5 live Drive has found.

New guidance means the employees face disqualification because they live with someone who has a conviction for a violent or sexual crime.

Unions are urging the Government to clarify its advice as members warn of a system in 'meltdown'.

One teaching assistant, who wished to remain anonymous*, has been suspended and faces losing her job because of the new rules.

"Why should something from my husband's past affect me now" she said. "I'm being punished even though I have never committed a crime... It's just so unfair."

The Department for Education says the requirements are not new and that schools should 'use their judgement' in applying them.

*Her words have been spoken by an actress.

This clip is originally from 5 live Drive on January 20 2015.