Sudden closure of nursery amid investigation

Child protection inquiry leads to suspension of four members of staff

An Angus nursery has closed suddenly amid a child protection investigation which has led to the suspension of four members of staff.

Lily Pond private nursery in Arbroath shut its doors yesterday afternoon after its operator said the suspensions had left it unable to operate in a “sustainable, safe or responsible” way.

Police Scotland confirmed an investigation was under way but said no arrests had been made.

It is understood the inquiry has resulted from concerns raised in the past couple of weeks.

The well-established and popular nursery operates in the west wing of the Victorian Ladyloan school, a distinctive sandstone building close to Arbroath FC’s Gayfield Park.

Parents received an email from Cheryl Stewart, service provider of the nursery, yesterday, confirming the investigation and the suspension of four staff members.

“I have been made aware that these allegations have been made. However, at this moment in time the details of said allegations have not been shared with myself,” it said.

A follow-up email a few hours later confirmed the closure decision.

Ms Stewart added: “As we are a small team, this has had a significant impact in our ability to operate to the standards required of us.

“It is not sustainable, safe or responsible to continue to operate as we are not in a position to provide a competent or familiar staff team going forward.

“It is with deepest regret that on that basis Lily Pond Nursery School can no longer operate after close of business today (Friday February 21 2020).

“This is not a decision which has been taken likely as I am aware of the unimaginable impact that this will have on all families, especially the children.

“I have been seeking the support of the Care Inspectorate and local authority to assist with providing support to parents on how they can seek alternative childcare arrangements.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support to everyone involved during this difficult period.”

When contacted, the nursery declined to comment.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Police Scotland, along with partner agencies, are working in conjunction after receiving allegations against staff at a nursery in Arbroath. “Inquiries are at an early stage.” A spokesperson for the Care Inspectorate said: “We have been notified by the care provider of their intention to cancel the registration of Lily Pond Nursery.

“We understand this is a difficult time for the families of children who attended the nursery.”