Essex parents call for more childcare support after Ipswich provider closes
Alpha Nurseries have blamed the closure on financial problems
Last updated 3rd Jan 2024
Parents in Essex are calling for more funding and support for childcare - after a company providing nursery and after-school care in the county closed unexpectedly.
Alpha Nurseries, which was based in Ipswich, and ran 22 sites in a number of counties, announced the closure last week - citing financial problems.
Parents of children affected say they've been left scrambling to find alternate care with little notice - with most providers full.
They've now launched a petition opposing the closures and calling for more funding and support for childcare.
"Critical institutions"
A user named 'Kezia Shea' explained on change.org why they launched the petition: "Hardworking and experienced staff were made jobless overnight, causing a huge amount of distress and uncertainty.
"Nurseries play an essential role in our community, providing early education and childcare services that are vital for working families. However, many nurseries across the country are facing closure due to financial pressures.
"These closures not only disrupt children's education but also place a significant burden on parents who rely on these services to balance work and family life...
"We call upon local authorities and government bodies to provide increased support for our nurseries, ensuring they can continue their invaluable work within our communities. We cannot afford to lose these critical institutions that nurture our youngest citizens' growth and development."
Alpha Nurseries have been contacted for comment.
Full list of clubs and nurseries affected
Suffolk
The Oaks Nursery, Felixstowe
Bluebells Nursery, Ipswich
Burlington Road ASC, Ipswich
Grange Farm Nursery, Ipswich
Smash Out of School Club, Ipswich
Treehouse Nursery, Ipswich
Seashore Day Nursery, Lowestoft
Pixels Day Nursery, Martlesham Heath
Brambles Day Community Nursery and Out of School Club, Reydon
Black Tiles Out of School Club, Woodbridge
Norfolk
Magic Tree Day Nursery, Dereham
Safe Hands Nursery, Diss
The Willows, Downham Market
Essex
Busy Beavers Community Nursery, Braintree
Lincolnshire
ABC Day Nursery, Boston
Middlecott House, Kirton
Newton House Day Nursery, Grantham
Kent
Bubbles Nursery and Out of School Club, Sandwich
Staffordshire
Kensington House Nursery, Uttoxeter
Blossoms Nursey, Stoke-on-Trent
Yorkshire
Brookhill Nursey, Rotherham
Rhubarb and Custards Nursery, Osset