Thank you Sarah

Nursery manager Sarah Butler is #ProudToSupport key workers and vulnerable families in South Tyneside by providing much-needed childcare

As a grandma to two boys, Sarah Butler is used to running around after little ones. That’s why a career in childcare has always been her passion.

Having worked at South Tyneside Council’s childcare centres for nearly twenty years, Sarah has seen generations of children grow up in the area. So, when the coronavirus pandemic struck, she knew that she wanted to play her part in keeping much-needed nurseries open for the children of key workers and those classed as vulnerable.

Sarah is nursery manager at Stanley’s at Hebburn Nursery, providing childcare to children from 0 to 5. As manager of a team of ten, it’s Sarah’s job to keep Stanley’s open to those who need it the most, ensuring her colleagues are supported throughout the coronavirus crisis.

“In March, we had to wave goodbye to so many of our lovely families,” Sarah says, “But it was important that we stayed open for key workers and some of the most vulnerable families in our community.”

Sarah joined a core team of childcare workers, participating in a rota system to ensure that South Tyneside Council’s childcare centres remained staffed. She threw herself into her role during the pandemic, working hard to organise educational sessions for children, as well as ensuring that staff followed the right health and safety measures.

What’s more, Sarah has been reaching out to local families in need, arranging deliveries of food parcels and nappies to those having to self-isolate.

“We’ve ensured that we provide the best care to children and families throughout this pandemic,” Sarah adds. “Knowing that we’re supporting other keyworkers makes me proud to be part of this team. The South Tyneside community has really come together to offer the right support, and I’m glad to have been part of that.”

The Mayor of South Tyneside Councillor Norman Dick, said: “On behalf of the people of South Tyneside, the Mayoress and I would like to convey our gratitude to you for continuing to support and care for children and families across the Borough."

“It is heart warming to see our key workers supported by a whole new set of key workers, who are keeping children safe and secure while their parents serve our communities. As the Borough’s First Citizen, I would like to say a huge personal thank you for being part of our community and for helping us address this challenge in an extremely positive way. We are extremely #proud.”