Bail extended in Torquay nursery investigation

All parents and guardians of children who attended have been contacted

A person arrested in connection with alleged sexual assault offences at a Torquay nursery has had their bail extended until the New Year.

Police say a number of young children have been identified as potential victims, as they continue to investigate allegations at Jack & Jill Childcare.

The employee was arrested in July and was moved out of the Devon & Cornwall area whilst the investigation continues, with conditions which include not to attend the area of the nursery.

Officers say all parents and guardians of children who attended have been contacted.

Specialist officers from the Public Protection Unit and social services, have visited the parents and guardians of children believed may be victims. Police say they will continue to receive multi-agency support in the coming days, weeks and months.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector James Stock, of the Public Protection Unit said: “The contact appears to be limited to within the nursery setting and we do not believe that any other member of staff had knowledge of these matters. These appear to be the actions of a lone individual, and the offences do not involve the taking or distributing of any images.”

“I can provide reassurance that the individual concerned was immediately removed from the setting and given strict bail conditions as part of their release from Police custody. They have since been moved out of the force area whilst the investigation continues.

“Following further investigation, a number of concerns around safeguarding matters were raised by Police to partner agencies. Ofsted subsequently made the decision to suspend the licence of the nursery whilst they further investigate those concerns.

“We will continue to work with our partner agencies and those affected by these matters to progress this investigation.”

Nancy Meehan, Deputy Director from Torbay children’s Services, said: “We take safeguarding children incredibly seriously, and we are working closely with partners including the police in relation to this matter."