Social workers 'missed warning signs' before toddler's death

Ayeeshia-Jayne Smith was fatally attacked by her mother, Kathryn Smith, at their home in Burton-on Trent, Staffordshire, in May 2014.

The toddler had been taken into foster care by Derbyshire County Council in May 2013 after her mother became involved with a violent partner, but was returned home five months later.

A serious case review by Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board found that while Ayeeshia's death could not have been predicted, social workers involved in the family's case were not "inquisitive" enough in assessing whether the 21-month old was safe living with her mother, who had a history of violent behavior and substance abuse.

While back in her mother's care there were a number of medical reports of minor injuries to Ayeeshia between January and April 2014 as well as police involvement, due to reports of domestic arguments between her mother and a new partner, Matthew Rigby.

The SCR found that Derbyshire social workers missed an opportunity to start child protection procedures between February and April 2014. Over this time social workers also failed to properly take into account the effect of her mother's new partner on Ayeeshia's home life and safety.

"Professionals made much of the positive relationship observed between M (Ayeeshia's mother) and her child and this appeared to lead, at times, to a prevailing sense of optimism and a lack of professional curiosity about the current partner, violent incidents, drug use and his care history and background," states the SCR, which refers to Ayeeshia as "Polly".

A multi-agency risk assessment conference was arranged for 30 April 2014 to assess Ayeeshia's case but the following day she died.

"Tragically, as professional concern was once more escalating, and recognised and steps were being taken to return the matter back to court, Polly died before any further protective action could be taken," the SCR added.

In April 2016, Kathryn Smith was found guilty of murder and child cruelty, while Matthew Rigby was found guilty of allowing the death of a child.

Safeguarding board recommendations include better assessment of parents' history of mental health and substance abuse, and improved information sharing between social workers and health professionals.

"The death of Ayeeshia-Jayne was an absolute tragedy and was devastating for everyone involved in her care. I have met with her family and the council has expressed its heartfelt sympathies to them," said Derbyshire County Council's strategic director of children's services Jane Parfrement.

"The council accepts the findings and recommendations in full and takes full responsibility for its actions in this case.

"We have already taken action to improve the safeguarding of children in Derbyshire and will continue to do so."