A NURSERY has blamed a “cash flow problem” after a number of staff members at the setting were not paid their wages on time.

Shine Bright Day Care & Out of School Club, in Heckmondwike, said the problem had arisen from “delays in payments being made to the nursery” as families grapple with the cost-of-living crisis.

One disgruntled worker said they had been unable to buy any Christmas presents after not being paid.

Meanwhile, the area’s MP described it as a “complex” situation and revealed she had been contacted by several former staff members.

A spokesperson for Shine Bright Day Care & Out of School Club said: “The cost of living crisis has had a significant impact on the families who use our day care facilities, as well as on our business.

“Due to delays in payments being made to the nursery, a temporary cash flow problem has delayed the wages of some of our staff but we are currently working with parents, Kirklees Council, debt collection agencies and our team to resolve these issues as swiftly as possible. 

“Ofsted visited our nursery on Tuesday 6th December 2022 after a number of false allegations were made on social media. The outcome of this visit was no further action.

“Our staff are committed to providing quality care for all of our children in a safe, enriching environment maintaining excellent standards within the Early Years Foundation Stage framework.”

Kim Leadbeater MP for Batley and Spen whose constituency the nursery is in, said: “I have been monitoring the situation at Shine Bright very closely after being contacted by several former members of staff.

“It’s a complex situation but obviously very distressing for many people who are feeling badly let down as Christmas approaches.

“I hope there can be a resolution of the outstanding issues as soon as possible.”

One former member of staff, who claimed the issue had dragged on for several months, said: “Excuses were made, funding issues or parents were often blamed for late payments as to why wages weren’t paid correctly - but nevertheless, wages were not paid correctly or on time.”

Another said: “I was practically begging for my wage. My family has suffered because of this.

“I haven’t bought anything for Christmas this year.”

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