23rd October - Supporting Families After the Bright Horizons Quayside Day Nursery Closure

I am deeply disappointed that families were given only three months’ notice of the closure of Bright Horizons Quayside Day Nursery and Preschool, especially when the option to continue into next year was still available. This decision has caused real distress for parents and children, many of whom are now being forced to find alternative childcare at extremely short notice.

Since learning of the closure, I have met with senior representatives from both the University and Bright Horizons to discuss the issue directly and to press for urgent support for affected families.

I want to express my sincere thanks to Clifford Road Primary School and Nursery, who stepped up so quickly after our discussions. Their ability to offer both half-day and full-day sessions will make a genuine difference and help reduce disruption for children who have already been through enough uncertainty.

I am urging other local nurseries across Ipswich to come forward if they have available spaces. Every additional place will help ensure that families can access the childcare they need during this difficult period.

More widely, this situation highlights why we must transform support for children and families. That is why our Labour Government is rebuilding our children’s centre network with fresh investment, and why we are delivering 30 hours of government-funded childcare a week from the point a child turns nine months old — support that will save families thousands of pounds each year.

If you are a nursery in Ipswich with available spaces, please let me know. And if you are a parent affected by the closure and need help, please get in touch: jack.abbott.mp@parliament.uk