A NUSERY group has gone above and beyond in ensuring its youngsters are safe whilst in its care.

All five of Mulberry Bush Nursery Group nurseries in Bury have been awarded Millie’s Mark by National Day Nurseries Association in collaboration with Department for Education and Millie’s Trust. Millie’s Mark is named after Millie Thompson, who tragically died as a result of choking in a nursery in 2012.

Her parents Dan and Joanne Thompson have campaigned for all staff to have paediatric first aid training and having Millie’s Mark demonstrates that nurseries have met this.

The group said that award demonstrated it goes above and beyond the minimum requirements in paediatric first aid in its nurseries

Jo Kinloch, Director, said: "We are absolutely thrilled that all of our five nurseries have been awarded Millie’s Mark — five of the first 25 in the country to have been awarded this special status.

"The award shows how serious we are about ensuring children are safe when they are in our care.

"We have always made sure that all of our team are qualified in first aid and hope that it is never needed.

"We are very proud of this fantastic achievement and really value this recognition from Millie’s Mark and the NDNA."

Purnima Tanuku, Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) added: "Achieving Millie’s Mark is a great achievement for each nursery, it shows that all staff are fully trained in paediatric first aid and that they have reflected on their current practice to improve competence and confidence.

"Becoming a Millie’s Mark’s nursery is a clear indicator for parents that this nursery has met the highest standards and gives them the reassurance that their children are safe."