Three Black Country nurseries shut over children’s safety alert

Three nurseries have been suspended from opening amid concerns that children could be harmed.

Daffodils Nursery in Smethwick, Stepping Stone Nursery in Halesowen and Tulip Day Nursery in West Bromwich have had their registrations temporarily withdrawn, Ofsted confirmed.

A spokeswoman for the watchdog said Ofsted did not comment on individual providers, but confirmed “all three nurseries have been suspended because we are concerned that there is a possible risk of harm to children”.

She said concerned parents should contact their local authority about available childcare places. The BBC has approached the owner of the nurseries for a response.

The Ofsted spokeswoman said: “We continue to work with other agencies to ensure the safety of the settings.”

West Midlands Police told the BBC officers were liaising with Ofsted and the two local authorities.

The suspensions had been done in line with Ofsted’s “suspending a childcare provider” guidance, the watchdog said.

All three nurseries, Daffodils in Waterloo Road, Smethwick, Stepping Stone, in Green Lane, Halesowen, and Tulip Day, in High Street, West Bromwich, are owned by Daffodils Nursery Ltd and were rated as Good by Ofsted in 2023.

According to the guidance, suspensions happen when it is thought that children may be at risk of harm but does not always mean a provider has done something wrong.

Suspensions remain in force for a set period of six weeks and can be extended. Providers can appeal against decisions to suspend registrations.

A Sandwell Council spokesman said: “We are aware of the situation regarding the nurseries and are doing all we can to help parents and carers make suitable, alternative arrangements.

“Parents and carers of children at the nurseries affected can contact us.”

The BBC has also approached Dudley Council for comment.