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The government is currently exploring the possibility of making CCTV installation mandatory in early years childcare settings following a serious case of child abuse in north London. Vincent Chan, aged 45, who worked at the Bright Horizons nursery in West Hampstead for almost seven years, was found guilty of multiple offences involving the sexual abuse of children. Despite having passed all necessary vetting procedures, Chan admitted to these charges, prompting widespread concern about safeguarding measures within such environments.
Bright Horizons responded to the revelations by expressing their shock and horror over “this individual’s horrific crimes.” In the wake of the case, the organization commissioned an independent review to scrutinize and improve its safeguarding processes. Additionally, in December, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson initiated a local child safeguarding practice review aimed at identifying lessons to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. She emphasized the importance of strengthening protections for children at every possible stage.
However, when Phillipson announced the review, she also cautioned about the potential risks of CCTV misuse, which could lead to other forms of child abuse. To address these concerns, an advisory group was established to develop appropriate guidance for the sector regarding CCTV usage. Despite these reservations, Education Minister Olivia Bailey announced recently in the House of Commons that the government is actively considering making CCTV compulsory across early years settings as part of the ongoing review process.
Labour MP Tulip Siddiq, representing Hampstead and Highgate, pressed Bailey for details on the government’s plans. Bailey responded by thanking Siddiq for her advocacy and expressing sympathy for the affected children and families. She reaffirmed that child safety is the top priority, stating, “The safety of our children comes first, so we are considering the mandatory use of CCTV in early years settings through our review, which we are getting under way rapidly.” Meanwhile, Chan, who lives in Finchley, pleaded guilty in December to multiple counts of sexual assault on a child and offences relating to indecent images. His sentencing is scheduled for 12 February at Wood Green Crown Court
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