Holderness House once the home of Thomas Ferens, one of Hull’s greatest ever philanthropists, has stepped in to rescue a children’s nursery which was forced to close with immediate effect in the last 10 days.
Wescott Tots which has operated since 1993 and has been rated outstanding five times by Ofsted, closed its doors to local families just over a week ago with devastating effects for many who have benefitted from its Nursery provision. Many families have described the distress of having to find alternative provision at last minute, with some having to send children to family members outside of the region.
Holderness House which has recently received planning approval by Hull City Council to provide support to voluntary sector services in the area following its closure as a registered Care Home in 2024, has opened its doors to the Nursery, which is a registered charity, on a temporary basis.
Andrew Barber Trustee at Holderness House said: “The House and grounds were given to the City by Thomas Ferens and his wife Ettie alongside other gifts such as Ferens Art Gallery, Hull University, open spaces and homes in the area, which have gone on to provide a safe haven, education, wellbeing for close to a century.
In hearing the crisis Wescott Tots were in and after speaking to their team we could see their determination, passion and dedication to the families they support. In the spirit of Ferens philanthropic nature, we couldn’t not explore the chance to help”.
Thanks to an incredible community effort involving friends and families of Westcott Tots as well as Holderness House staff, the Nursery has now made the short journey across to Holderness House. Following Ofsted approval, they have today opened in their temporary home, just a few days since its devastating closure.
Stacie Moxon Chair of Wescott Tots said “This is incredible news for our families, and we are so grateful to the team and Trustees at Holderness House. The news of our closure was upsetting for all involved, but our team have worked tirelessly with Hull City Council, Ofsted and community partners to find a positive solution that gives us the breathing space to source a longer-term investment and positive outcome for our charity but most importantly our families”.
Wescott Tots has provided nursery care since 1993, sadly the building which was its home is no longer fit for purpose. The charity is determined to create a new operating model and funding that ensures hundreds more young people will start their educational journey in the community they live and love.
Stacie went on to say, “Although this is a positive outcome in the short term, Wescott Tots is still in need of help any donations to our capital fund would be gratefully received but plans are underway and with the support of Holderness House, the board can refocus efforts on that plan now our families have their nursery back again, whilst being safe in the knowledge our team and families have a wonderful space to operate from.
To support Wescott Tots capital fundraising you can make a donation https://www.gofundme.com/f/get-a-new-building