WIREDGOV

A former day nursery manager was charged recently with two offences as part of a National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation into a video conferencing facility used to share indecent images of children.

Alison Whateley, aged 43, from Farnham, Surrey, who was arrested on 26 September 2017, was a senior manager at Bushy Tails Nursery in Teddington.

During the time of the alleged offending, she also worked for the same company at Hampton Wick Nursery and two other nurseries which are now closed – Teddington and Twickenham West.

Following her arrest Whateley was granted conditional police bail. She was also suspended by her employer and later dismissed. She appeared at Staines Magistrates Court yesterday and was bailed with conditions to return to Guildford Crown Court on the 23 April.

The charges relate to online child sexual abuse imagery. Officers have found no evidence to suggest that any of the images were made at the nurseries or that Whateley has been in sexual contact with any children. The investigation is ongoing.

Whateley’s employers, the local authorities and the NCA have worked together to address safeguarding concerns. Parents with children at the nurseries have been informed.

NCA officers and child protection advisers, along with nursery representatives, are meeting parents to talk about any concerns they may have.

The NCA also has a dedicated team who will be able to respond to any questions or concerns parents may have in relation to this investigation. The team can be contacted on 01925 663 355 quoting Operation Waiwode or by emailing operation.waiwode@nca.x.gsi.gov.uk

Alternatively, the NSPCC helpline, staffed by professional practitioners and independent of the investigation, are contactable 24/7 on 0808 800 5000. Contact can be anonymous and they can advise you where to seek further support should you need it.