A harrowing mix-up at a Merseyside nursery left a mother distraught after her toddler was mistakenly collected by the wrong grandfather, raising questions about security protocols and vetting procedures. Two-year-old Rosie was taken from Kids Planet in Crosby before being returned safely just minutes later.
Jody, Rosie's 37-year-old mother, described experiencing a panic attack upon hearing the news, stating she had 'a million and one questions' regarding how such a breach of protocol could have occurred. She expressed disbelief at the explanation provided by the nursery, questioning how the individual was able to navigate through multiple security doors and leave with her daughter without staff intervention. Jody confirmed that Rosie would not be returning to the nursery following the incident.
A spokesperson for Kids Planet issued an apology, acknowledging that a child was 'mistakenly released to a grandparent known to staff and returned safely within minutes'. They clarified that the individual was an approved collector for a different child also present at the nursery and had passed all necessary security vetting. The nursery spokesperson emphasised the safety and wellbeing of children as their highest priority, stating they are in continuous contact with the families involved and a full investigation is underway.
In response to the 'unprecedented matter', Kids Planet has implemented immediate measures, including supervised working for the team and additional security protocols. They are also reviewing their policies and training procedures. In line with safeguarding guidelines, the nursery has made self-referrals to Ofsted and the local authority designated officer, confirming full cooperation with both organisations during the ongoing investigation.
Kids Planet in Crosby holds an overall 'Good' rating from its last Ofsted inspection in October 2021, but a review of the report reveals that the nursery had previously been found wanting in certain areas. The inspector noted that it was not meeting some requirements and had taken action to put things right, which included revising risk assessments and procedures for headcounts.