Negligence crèche with no accountability

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the experiences my child and I have had with Cornelius Crèche Vukuthu in ilitha park . I am extremely disappointed with the service provided, which has led me to lose trust in the care and safety of your institution. Below, I will outline the series of events and reasons for my dissatisfaction, as well as my request for a full refund of R1400, which I believe is justified due to your negligence. Details of Negligence

Registration Issue on the First Day: I registered my child for the 2024 academic year and paid his fees in December 2024, as instructed. However, on his very first day, my child was sent home, with your staff claiming he was unregistered. This caused unnecessary stress and reflects poor administrative management on your part.

Neglect of Basic Care and Needs: Over the three days my child attended your crèche: He consistently came home with a full bottle of milk/water, indicating that he was not given proper hydration throughout the day. On only one occasion was his bottle partially consumed, but even then, it was inadequate for a 1-year-old. My child also came home hungry, which shows neglect in ensuring children are fed properly during their time at the crèche.

Lack of Supervision: My mother visited the school to observe the environment and was shocked to find children crying and left unsupervised with no teacher present. This raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the children in your care.

During a subsequent meeting, your staff admitted to this lack of supervision, which further eroded my confidence in your ability to care for young children. Infact there was no supervision for crying 2 year olds

Failure to Provide the Agreed Service: I paid R1400 for my child to be enrolled and cared for at your crèche. However, due to your negligence and failure to meet basic standards of care, I did not receive the service I was promised.

Actions Taken

I reached out to your school to express my concerns and frustrations. A meeting was held with the school manager and teacher, during which: The teacher apologized and admitted to negligence. I was informed that the teacher would face a disciplinary hearing.

Despite the apologies, I felt unsettled and dissatisfied with the resolution, as the safety and care of my child were compromised.

I requested a full refund of R1400 given that my child only attended for three days and did not receive proper care in addition his private part was not wiped properly.

Your Response

After the meeting, I was informed that I had falsely accused the crèche of negligence, based on a review of footage. However, this claim came only after I requested a refund, which feels like an attempt to avoid accountability. The crèche management also stated that I was "threatening them" when I mentioned seeking advice from the Department of Social Development (DCD). I strongly disagree with this characterization, as I am simply exercising my parental rights to ensure my child’s well-being and to hold the institution accountable.

My Concerns

Your justification that my 1-year-old “put his bottle down” as a reason for him not drinking enough liquids is unacceptable. At this age, it is the responsibility of adults to ensure children stay hydrated and nourished. The lack of supervision, as admitted by your staff, puts the safety of all children at risk. I cannot trust an institution that allows children to be left unattended, crying, and vulnerable.

Resolution Requested

I firmly believe I am entitled to a full refund of R1400 due to: Your failure to provide the agreed-upon service. Negligence in the care and supervision of my child. The breach of trust caused by these incidents. If this matter is not resolved promptly, I will escalate my complaint to the Department of Social Development (DCD). I may also seek legal assistance to ensure accountability and to protect other children who may suffer under your care.

I hope to resolve this matter amicably and expect a response to my request for a refund within 7 business days. Your negligence has already caused significant distress, and I trust you will take responsibility for this situation.