It is a specialist nursery for children up to 3 years old who may have a number of different disabilities. These range from neurological and neuromuscular problems to chromosomal disorders, such as Down’s Syndrome, severe language delay and social communication disorders. Children can only attend the Nursery when referred by Health Professionals (mainly paediatricians.)

The team of experts at the Nigel Hunter Nursery include Paediatricians, Physio and Occupational Therapists, a Speech and Language Therapist, an Orthoptist and the permanent staff. These include a Co-ordinator and Senior Early Years Practitioners. An advisor from PICS (Parents Information and Contacts service) also comes in each week to help parents with Benefits and Social Care issues.

Children who attend may do so at weekly therapy sessions or as part of a multi-professional assessment programme. There is no charge to attend.

The atmosphere at the Nursery is one of fun and excitement – every time you visit you’ll be greeted by something new, be it sand on the floor to jelly on the walls! It is filled with many pieces of therapy equipment, as well as many toys and activities that help stimulate children. There are various playrooms as well as the incredible sensory room that could occupy anyone for hours with its array of lights, bubbles, soft areas, and many things to touch.

The Nursery does not get much funding and would not be able to survive at all if it wasn’t for fund raising and donations. It’s own charity – The Friends of the Nigel Hunter Nursery – has been set up to pay for the running of the nursery, staff, equipment as well as outings and parties. You can find more information about how to help on the donations page.

The name of the Nursery comes from the very first specialist Paediatrician at Gloucester Royal Hospital from 1975 to 1997 – Dr. Nigel Hunter.

To contact the Nursery please write to the address below:

Nigel Hunter Nursery,
Gloucester Royal Hospital,
Great Western Road,
Gloucester,
GL1 3NN

You can contact them on the telephone by ringing:

08454 226334