NDNA comments on BBC programme How Safe Are Our Nurseries?
NDNA’s Executive Chair Purnima Tanuku CBE said: “The case around the tragic death of Genevieve Meehan at nursery was a truly shocking incident. These cases are extremely rare but for those affected, one case is too many. Her parents, who have been through the worst imaginable experience for any family, are showing great courage in highlighting how to prevent future incidents and wanting a legacy for Genevieve.
“The safety and well-being of children is paramount in early years settings. These settings are strictly regulated and inspected against mandatory requirements which are set out in the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework. All nurseries in England follow rigorous safeguarding procedures and these are inspected by Ofsted.
“Efforts to raise awareness of the importance of raising safeguarding concerns may have led to the increase in the numbers of incidents reported. It is important that this happens, rather than potential issues being underreported. We know from Ofsted that in the vast majority of those recorded cases, no further action is required.
“If parents or staff have concerns about what is happening in early years settings, it is right that they should raise this with the setting themselves or take it to Ofsted and their local authority if they are not satisfied or have serious concerns.
“Over a million children are cared for in all types of nurseries across the country every day. The vast majority of nurseries and their staff do amazing work for children’s early development and learning, doing everything in their power to keep them safe.
“Early years settings are facing unprecedented pressures both financially and securing the staff they need to be able to operate. We continue to be focussed on ensuring our children get the highest-quality early education and care and this requires investment and support.”
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