Highgate Day Nurseries, Swansea

Kids play…
…smoking kept at bay!

Highgate Nursery was established in 1989 by Julie Halliday and since then, with the help of Jayne Lewis they have nurtured Highgate into the respected childcare company it is today. Highgate’s ethos is to create an environment in which children will be safe, stimulated and challenged; a place where fun and enjoyment go hand in hand with learning and discovery – a place where smoking is definitely not welcomed!

In the past few years, Highgate have taken active steps to protect the health and well-being of the toddlers, children and also staff at the nursery.That’s why they have taken strict measures to make it a complete smoke-free zone.

Following consultation with smoking and non-smoking staff, , a programme was set in place, which included support for those who wanted to give up. The Smoke Free Swansea initiative came in to give advice, support and to hand out informative leaflets and today smoking isn’t allowed anywhere on site, including the building itself and the grounds.

Staff are encouraged not to smoke during working hours, including lunchtimes, for the safety of babies and toddlers. The saying ‘practice what you preach’ certainly rings true with managing director and ex-smoker Julie as she took advantage of the support on offer and has now given up the cigarettes for good!

Jayne Lewis, Operations Manager at Highgate Nursery said, “Being smoke-free is an important issue especially in the childcare industry, it’s just not responsible to let toddlers and children play in a smoky environment. We have never had any complaints from our staff about being a smoke-free zone; we are aware of the difficulties of giving up smoking and are always ready to offer guidance and support to any of our staff who need it. If there are any companies concerned about going completely non-smoking, there are plenty of support services out there.”