My daughter works in the cafe of a large kids play centre. She says she’s very concerned about two children who come in with their dad every day, and I said I’d ask for opinions on mumsnet about what she should do.
She thinks the children are neglected. Her reasons are
They all look very dirty
They come in every day when the centre opens and are there when they close (9.30-6), but she’s never known the dad buy them anything to eat or drink. He buys himself lots of bottles of water at £1.30 each although tap water is available free.
She never sees the dad interact with the children. He is just on his phone the whole time
The children, who are of preschool age (she’s not great at ages but she thinks 2/3 and 4) take food from abandoned plates and also steal from plates people are sitting eating from. She has seen them pick up chips from the floor. Customers often complain so she talks to the dad, who asks how much she wants, and gets his wallet out.
She thinks he’s not short of money, as entry to the centre is £8 - £10 depending on age, although you can buy an annual pass. She’s sure he’s not sneaking his own food in, as the centre don’t mind that, although draw the line at things like McDonald’s and dominos etc
That’s it really. She’s mentioned it to the centre manager but he said it wasn’t their business. My daughters not a worrier, and I’m amazed she’s even noticed, so I think it must be quite bad.
I said to her there’s not much anyone can do without their details but she said that to use the centre you have to join. This involves giving your details and you need your photo membership card every time you go, so their details are on the system.
Should she do anything or just leave it? The children don’t seem unhappy, but very hungry and dirty. I gave my opinion, but we’d rather hear from others.