Families demand answers after Bristol nursery worker jailed for child abuse
Nathan Bennett was sentenced to 24 years in prison for abusing toddlers
Families affected by the abuse perpetrated by Nathan Bennett at the Partou King Street nursery in Bristol are calling for answers on how he was able to commit his crimes, after the nursery worker was sentenced to 24 years in prison for raping and abusing young children in his care.
Bennett, a 30-year-old former nursery worker, was convicted of multiple charges, including rape and sexual assault against five children.
His sentencing at Bristol Crown Court included an extended licence period of six years, placing him on the sex offenders’ register for life and subjecting him to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.
In a statement issued by law firm Leigh Day, which represents several of the affected families, questions were raised about the nursery’s handling of concerns regarding Bennett’s behaviour.
The statement read: “We entrusted our children to Partou King Street nursery believing they would be safe, cared for and nurtured. Instead, that trust was catastrophically broken by someone who abused his position in the most unimaginable way.”
“Nothing can undo what has happened. Our focus is now on supporting our children as they grow, and on seeking answers and accountability from those responsible for ensuring their safety."
Leigh Day partner Andrew Lord said: "The families we represent placed their trust in a nursery setting which should have been a place of safety and care.
“The criminal proceedings have exposed not only Bennett’s appalling abuse, but also serious questions about safeguarding, supervision and the handling of concerns raised by parents and staff prior to his arrest."
The courtroom heard testimony detailing the profound impact Bennett’s actions have had on the families, with parents expressing feelings of guilt and betrayal and a loss of trust.
Following Bennett's sentencing, inquiries continue as the affected families seek further action to ensure improvements in safeguarding children to prevent similar tragedies.
A spokesperson for Partou said:
"We have been shocked and distressed by the upsetting details that have emerged over the past several days about Nathan Bennett’s appalling crimes, for which he has now been found guilty on all counts and will face justice.
"Our primary concern from the moment we became aware of the offences has been for the children involved and their families. They have been provided with independent, specialist support, and this support is ongoing. Meanwhile we have provided every assistance and cooperation to the investigating authorities in the conduct of their important work.
"We have robust safeguarding policies and practices in place at Partou, which have been followed throughout. In response to the incident, we commissioned an independent review to identify any vulnerabilities and we have further strengthened our approach to safeguarding all children in our care in line with the recommendations made.
"We will be engaging with the sector and government to pursue co-ordinated initiatives to ensure that children in all nursery settings are safe."