UPDATE: The parents of nine-month-old Oliver Steeper, who tragically choked to death on pasta bolognese at his nursery, have just announced a six-figure settlement with Jelly Beans Day Nursery. This resolution comes after a harrowing journey following Oliver’s choking incident on September 23, 2021, which has sparked urgent discussions about early childhood safety standards.
Oliver was fed a chopped-up meal by nursery staff in Kent when he began choking and fell unconscious. He was rushed to William Harvey Hospital before being transferred to the Evelina London Children’s Hospital, where doctors discovered food lodged in his lungs. Tragically, the lack of oxygen led to severe brain injuries, and Oliver passed away six days later.
His parents, Zoe and Lewis Steeper, expressed that this settlement, while significant, was “never about the money.” Instead, they emphasized the need for “accountability” and have since campaigned for enhanced first aid training for childcare professionals. Their advocacy has resulted in the establishment of the Oliver Steeper Foundation, which provides anti-choking devices to nurseries across the UK.
During an inquest, coroner Katrina Hepburn noted the “poor standard” of first aid provided by nursery staff. She raised concerns that having only one first-aider per nursery could endanger children’s lives, prompting the government to implement new reforms. Since September 2023, regulations now mandate a staff member with a valid paediatric first-aid certificate must be present while children are eating.
Mrs. Steeper described the introduction of these reforms as “surreal” and “bittersweet,” stating, “I feel like if it hadn’t been Oli, it would have been another child.” She added, “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.”
Reflecting on the traumatic events of Oliver’s hospitalization, Mr. Steeper recounted, “It was like a scene out of The Matrix where you’re frozen in time, and all the doctors are doing 200 mph all around you.” The couple faced the heartbreaking moment when they were told to prepare for the worst and ultimately agreed to organ donation without hesitation.
In memory of their son, the Steepers are raising funds for devices like the LifeVac, which can help dislodge objects from a person’s throat. They have already used it on their second child, highlighting the ongoing need for safety measures.
Since their loss, the couple has received overwhelming support from the community, with Mrs. Steeper noting, “It’s very humbling when people come up to you at a summer fete and you might get a little kid that puts a pound in the bucket and the next thing someone gives you a £20 note. It’s mind-blowing.”
Their journey has not only transformed them as individuals but has also ignited a movement for better safety practices in childcare settings. The Steepers continue to advocate passionately, ensuring that Oliver’s legacy leads to meaningful changes in childcare safety standards across the UK.
As they move forward, the Steepers remain committed to preventing future tragedies and protecting children from choking hazards. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for improved safety measures in nurseries, making headlines as they push for change.
