UPDATE: The parents of nine-month-old Oliver Steeper have reached a six-figure settlement following their son’s tragic choking death at a nursery in Kent. This settlement marks a significant moment for Zoe and Lewis Steeper, who described it as the “end of a long road” while advocating for urgent reforms in childcare safety.
On September 23, 2021, Oliver was fed a meal at Jelly Beans Day Nursery, which staff inadequately prepared. He choked on a pasta bolognese dish and lost consciousness, leading to his transfer to William Harvey Hospital. After being moved to Evelina London Children’s Hospital, he was diagnosed with food lodged in his lungs, resulting in a catastrophic brain injury due to oxygen deprivation. Tragically, he passed away six days later.
The Steepers, represented by the law firm Leigh Day, have settled their claim with the nursery, which has since closed, without the nursery admitting liability. Zoe Steeper emphasized that their pursuit was never about financial compensation but about holding the nursery accountable for their negligence.
“We have been pushing for new standards in first aid training for childcare professionals since our son’s death,” Zoe stated. Their advocacy led to the establishment of the Oliver Steeper Foundation, which aims to provide anti-choking devices, like the LifeVac, to nurseries across the UK.
In an inquest last year, coroner Katrina Hepburn criticized the nursery’s inadequate first aid protocols, suggesting that having only one first-aider per nursery could jeopardize children’s safety. In response to their findings, the government introduced new reforms effective September 2023, mandating that a staff member with a valid pediatric first-aid certificate must be present during mealtime.
Zoe reflected on the bittersweet nature of these reforms, saying, “It’s surreal because Oli had to die for these changes to happen.” She expressed concern that without increased safety measures, other children could face similar fates.
The couple’s commitment to change is evident in their efforts to raise awareness and funds for their foundation. “We hear stories about children who are still dying from choking in childcare settings, so I still think there is a long way to go,” Zoe added.
Their personal experience has also driven them to support organ donation. After Oliver’s passing, they learned that his kidneys saved the life of a 60-year-old man, which Mr. Steeper described as a profound legacy. He shared, “What an amazing thing that is, to know he’s gotten someone off dialysis and given someone a life.”
The Steepers have already utilized the LifeVac device on their second child during a choking incident, underscoring their personal commitment to safety. The foundation has gained significant community support, with numerous individuals contributing to their cause even amidst challenging economic conditions.
Zoe remarked on the overwhelming support they’ve received, stating, “It’s mind-blowing when you see a child putting a pound in the bucket, and then someone else gives a £20 note.” Their journey, although rooted in tragedy, continues to inspire others to prioritize safety and advocacy in childcare.
As they move forward, the Steeper family remains dedicated to ensuring that no parent has to endure the heartache they have faced. Their mission is clear: to create a safer environment for children and to honor Oliver’s memory through meaningful change.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Steeper family continues their fight for child safety in nurseries across the UK.
