Nursery worker charged with manslaughter of toddler in Dudley

Kimberley Cookson, a 22-year-old nursery worker, has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the tragic death of 14-month-old Noah Sibanda at Fairytales Nursery in Dudley on December 9, 2022. The nursery's director, Deborah Latewood, 54, has also been charged with failing to comply with general duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act, while Fairytales Nursery Limited faces charges of corporate manslaughter. Noah's mother, Masi Sibanda, has publicly expressed her grief, describing her son as a 'beautiful, happy and easy-going little boy' and has shared her disbelief over his death. The Crown Prosecution Service has emphasized the importance of a fair trial for the defendants, who are scheduled to appear in court on May 13. The nursery was closed by Ofsted shortly after Noah's death due to concerns for children's safety. Four other individuals arrested during the investigation will not face charges.