Introduce a maximum safe temperature for Early Years settings

32
signatures
openDepartment for Educationby Natasha VarshaniOpened 16 July 2026

Background

Introduce a legal maximum indoor temperature for nurseries and early years settings. Require providers to take action when temperatures become unsafe, to protect babies, young children and staff during periods of extreme heat.

Additional details

Many nurseries and early years settings have small windows, poor ventilation and no air conditioning. During heatwaves, indoor temperatures can become uncomfortably high, and fans alone are often not enough. Babies and children under five are particularly vulnerable to overheating and dehydration, and some are unable to communicate when they feel unwell. The Government should introduce a maximum safe indoor temperature and require action when this is exceeded.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 774280.