“Due to the serious concerns about health, safety and welfare at the Hamilton School Nursery, and the closure of the school, we have acted urgently to safeguard children. The Care Inspectorate applied for a cancellation order in the Sheriff Court under Section 65 of the Public Services Reform (Scotland) Act and the court has set a hearing for Wednesday.
“We understand that the Hamilton School Nursery has now informed parents that it intends to permanently close and we are currently trying to contact the provider to clarify this.
“We understand this is a very difficult time for parents and young people who usually attend the Hamilton School and Nursery – but we insist that childcare is safe and appropriate.
“Where we have concerns about a care service, we will not hesitate to act.
"The Care Inspectorate's Improvement Notice, with its deadline of last Friday, identified some of our concerns around life-saving medication, nutrition, staffing and leadership. The Education Scotland inspection report of the school has been published and the Care Inspectorate report, currently being finalised, sets out more details about our concerns. We are examining options to publish this report as quickly as possible so parents will understand more fully the basis of our serious concerns.
"We continue to support the police in their enquiries.
"Education Scotland have set up a special advice line for parents affected by the school closure. This is being staffed by inspection staff and we encourage parents to use this facility. They can call 01506 600316. Inspectors are also making themselves available to meet with parents in the coming days.
“We know this will have a knock-on effect in terms of nursery provision in Aberdeen and the Care Inspectorate stands ready to assist other nurseries and childminders who wish to increase their capacity, although this can only be done where it is safe to do so and where the right staffing ratios are in place.
“Aberdeen City Council can provide advice for parents seeking new childcare arrangements. Their helpline number is 01224 814828.
"Parents can search for details of nurseries and childminders in Aberdeen on the Care Inspectorate website and can contact the Care Inspectorate on 0345 6009527."
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