What can a manager do if they suspect a staff member of stealing? Mary Evans considers all the angles
Early years managers who foster a working culture of openness, honesty and trust in their settings face tricky personnel problems if things go missing from the workplace.
Prompt but cautious action is needed. A manager should avoid creating a climate of finger-pointing which could lead to a collapse in staff morale. Never confront a suspect without firm evidence, and bear in mind that the culprit might not, after all, be on the staff.
Anne Sheldon, managing director of the Child & Co chain, says a company's rules should spell out that theft or unauthorised possession of property belonging to the nursery, its staff or customers is regarded as an act of gross misconduct which could lead to summary dismissal. 'We take the view that if we cannot trust someone not to steal from other people, how can we trust them with other people's children? You cannot close your eyes and pretend it is not happening. But usually it is very hard to catch someone.'
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