BREAKING NEWS: The parents of nine-month-old Oliver Steeper have just reached a significant six-figure settlement following his tragic choking death at a nursery in Kent. This urgent development comes after an extensive legal battle initiated by the family after the incident on September 23, 2021.
Oliver suffered a choking incident while being fed a pasta bolognese meal at the now-closed Jelly Beans Day Nursery. He lost consciousness and was rushed to William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, later being transferred to the Evelina London Children’s Hospital. Tragically, he died six days later due to a catastrophic brain injury caused by oxygen deprivation, with food lodged in his lungs.
His parents, Zoe and Lewis Steeper, expressed that this settlement is not just about financial compensation but about holding the nursery accountable for their son’s death. “It’s never been about the money; it’s about accountability,” they stated, emphasizing their ongoing mission for improved safety standards in childcare.
The family, represented by the law firm Leigh Day, revealed that Oliver was not ready for solid food, as he had not yet begun the weaning process. An inquest last year highlighted the poor standard of first aid provided by nursery staff, prompting coroner Katrina Hepburn to warn that having only one first-aider per nursery could endanger children’s lives.
In response to the inquest findings, the UK government introduced reforms in September, ensuring that a staff member with a valid paediatric first-aid certificate is present during meal times. Mrs. Steeper remarked on the bittersweet nature of these reforms, stating, “It is surreal to see these changes because Oli had to die for them to happen.”
The Steeper family has also founded the Oliver Steeper Foundation, dedicated to enhancing safety in childcare settings. Their charity aims to provide anti-choking devices, such as the LifeVac, to nurseries across the UK. Mrs. Steeper recounted the emotional impact of their loss, describing Oliver as a “very cheeky, cheerful” boy who brought joy to their lives.
Mr. Steeper vividly recalled their chaotic arrival at the hospital, describing it as “a scene out of The Matrix” where time seemed frozen. The heartbreaking moment when a doctor informed them of Oliver’s grim prognosis shattered their hopes. “Our world just fell apart because we had hope all the way until that point,” he said.
Following Oliver’s death, the Steepers chose to donate his organs. Mr. Steeper shared the poignant news that Oliver’s kidneys have provided life-saving assistance to a 60-year-old man, adding, “What an amazing thing that is, to know he’s gotten someone off dialysis and given someone a life.”
The couple’s advocacy for safety reforms continues as they aim to prevent similar tragedies from occurring. They expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from the community, especially during challenging economic times. “The whole process has changed us as people,” Mrs. Steeper said.
As this story develops, the Steeper family’s commitment to ensuring child safety in nurseries remains a pressing issue that resonates with parents across the UK and beyond. Their journey underscores the urgent need for improved first aid standards and the importance of child safety in childcare settings.
For more updates, stay tuned as we follow the impact of these crucial reforms and the ongoing efforts of the Steeper family.
