Nurses at University College Hospital say they'll have to quit if nursery closure goes ahead

ITV London's Daniel Henry reports.


A nursery which has been described as "a cornerstone in supporting healthcare professionals" is set to be closed after 25 years of operating.

The Mousehole Nursery has been servicing staff members at University College London Hospital by looking after thousands of children and enabling their parents, predominantly women, to sustain their careers at the NHS.

Tania, a 36-year-old nurse, said: “If I lose the nursery I will not have any childcare for my son so I will not be able to work.

"There are no affordable options where I live so I will be unable to work as I currently do.

"He will also lose his nursery family.”


  • Tania Jacinto spoke to ITV London's Helen Keenan about the nursery closure.


The nursery is run by 12 women who are all worried about facing redundancy, a situation that could have severe consequences for the community.

A petition with the goal to keep the nursery doors open has been shared online.

On Wednesday at 4.30pm there will be a demonstration by the UCLH Unison outside of UCLH.

A UCLH spokesperson said: “We have taken the very difficult decision to undertake a consultation on the closure of the UCLH staff nursery due to the lease on the building expiring in 2024. 

"UCLH is considering the views of nursery staff and parents and whether it is reasonable to fund a nursery that runs at a considerable loss and benefits fewer than 30 staff".  

“We are acutely aware of the impact this will have on staff working at the nursery, families and children, and we will provide as much support to them as possible.” 


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