Playpen Nursery in Inverness given weeks to improve after visit by Care Inspectorate

A damning report identifies a range of areas in which the nursery must improve.

Playpen Nursery, located in the grounds of Raigmore Hospital in Inverness, is privately run and provides care for up to 37 children.

The Care Inspectorate made an unannounced visit on June 29 and 30 and its report lays bare a host of weaknesses, with quality of leadership and staff given the lowest rating possible – unsatisfactory. Quality of care, play and learning – and the nursery setting – were also deemed weak.

A “serious concern letter” was issued on the first day of the inspection as inspectors had “significant concerns” relating to a lack of risk assessments for children with identified needs.

A further visit on July 5 found improvements had been made but the nursery still has significant work to do to meet inspectors’ demands in other areas by October 7.

In terms of play and learning, inspectors said: “Some children had fun through their play, however this was not consistent across the different age groups.”

They were pleased with the nursery’s baby room but for older children they said: “It was not clear what the children had learned and how this learning had been supported and extended by staff.”

In terms of care and support, they said: “Some interactions from staff were kind and nurturing, however this was not consistent throughout the whole staff team.”

They said that, overall, staff skills and understanding of child development was weak, with a “large majority” of staff new and inexperienced.

Noting the manager had been in place since May they said it was too early to see any positive impact she may be making and the nursery’s owners have been told about the importance of ensuring the new manager has sufficient and protected time to carry out her responsibilities and is supported to engage in further training.

In terms of the nursery setting, the report detailed how some toys and furnishings were “broken or ripped”.

By October 7, the nursery must have comprehensive personal plans for children and ensure all staff are aware of and supporting children with specific health needs . They also have to develop and implement an effective system of quality assurance.

Staff should also be equipped with the knowledge and experience necessary for their role, with sufficient numbers of staff in place.

A nursery spokeswoman said: “We were all very disappointed with our Care Inspectorate report. We are addressing all issues raised and with the support of the Care Inspectorate, we are confident of a successful outcome. Staff are currently undertaking an enhanced training programme.

“We would like to thank the parents for their continued support.”

Inspectors will make another unannounced visit after October 7 to check on progress.

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