Vincent Chan admits child abuse while working at Bright Horizons nursery

Nursery worker Vincent Chan has admitted abusing children at a Bright Horizons nursery in what police described as one of the most “harrowing and complex cases” they’ve dealt with.

Chan’s abuse at the West Hampstead nursery was uncovered after a colleague raised concerns and it was discovered he had been filming children at the nursery. London’s Metropolitan Police subsequently discovered what is described as “deeply disturbing material” on his devices and later found video evidence of sexual abuse of children at the nursery.

Appearing in court this week, Chan pleaded guilty to 26 charges and will be sentenced on 23 January next year.

Chan had a number of roles at the nursery and was responsible for the care of children aged between two and four years old. This case is particularly shocking due to the young age of the victims and the extent of the abuse that took place by someone who was trusted by parents to look after their children, in an environment that should have been safe.

It is understood Bright Horizons is carrying out a full review of its safeguarding practices.

As Chan was employed by the nursery and the abuse appears to have taken place during the course of his employment, the nursery could also be held vicariously responsible for his actions and any psychiatric injury that any of the children have suffered.

As a lawyer who acts for survivors of sexual abuse, and as a parent, this case is deeply shocking and I hope all those impacted are receiving the support they deserve.

At Bolt Burdon Kemp we are passionate about supporting survivors of abuse and have a specialist team of experts in abuse law who can provide information and advice about civil claims. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Vincent Chan case, please get in touch with me or one of our other specialist team members for a confidential, no obligation conversation.