In the middle, or more aptly, on the fence, is the Care Commission.
It is a David and Goliath struggle over the issue of handwashing practices. The Secret Garden is an outdoor nursery with no running water and is being threatened by closure (News, 2 September). They are relying on the endeavours of parents and 'experts' to give them support, guidance and encouragement that they are right to take a stance for what they believe.
There is no argument - everyone agrees that handwashing is the best and most practical solution to keeping your hands clean - but no one is prepared to accept the responsibility of suggesting a suitable alternative when there is no soap and water for miles around. Nor will the authorities allow the nursery to conduct its own risk assessment of the potential dangers, even though all parents who send their children to the nursery are made aware of the hand hygiene policy and must sign a disclaimer.
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