Nursery World - Editor's view (362)

The former nursery nurses from Newcastle who have just been awarded substantial libel damages have been living through what must be every childcare worker's worst nightmare - to be branded a child abuser (see News, page 4, and Special Report, pages 10-11). Christopher Lillie and Dawn Reed may have had their lives permanently blighted by those accusations, and searching questions must be asked about how the report condemning them came to its conclusions and about how the nursery children were questioned about events -a process which seems likely to have been traumatic in itself.

Christopher Lillie and Dawn Reed may have had their lives permanently blighted by those accusations, and searching questions must be asked about how the report condemning them came to its conclusions and about how the nursery children were questioned about events - a process which seems likely to have been traumatic in itself.

The mass hysteria and witch-hunting that seem to follow any suspicion of child abuse can only harm the relationship between families and nursery workers, breaking down vital trust and affection. How can nursery nurses do their jobs properly if they are wary of cuddling and comforting children in case their behaviour is misinterpreted?

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included