A PROBE will be published by the council over social service failings in the case. 

Gloucester Crown Court was told a Swindon social worker was not visiting the family when he said he was. The appalling neglect of the couple’s younger child was noticed when she started school, aged five, despite being so malnourished she looked more like a toddler.

Couple jailed for almost 10 years for neglecting their own children

Yesterday, a spokesman for Swindon Borough Council said a serious case review was written last year by the Swindon Local Safeguarding Children Board. 

He added: “Now that the sentence has been passed, this report will be published shortly at which time it will be more appropriate to comment.”
Wiltshire Police, which led the investigation into the couple, welcomed the jail sentences. 

Police praise victims' bravery

A force spokeswoman said: “This was a long and complex investigation which began in late 2015. The case itself involved severe neglect and physical abuse of several children. 

“In addition to this, the victims would have suffered a great deal emotionally. We would like to praise the victims who had the courage to speak to police – it is thanks to their bravery combined with the dedication and tenacity of the investigation team that we were able to put the couple before the courts. They are now both serving prison sentences so can no longer cause further harm.”

'Horrific and shocking'

The NSPCC branded the neglect horrific and shocking. A spokeswoman said: “This is an appalling case of child neglect and the details of the girls’ suffering at the hands of their parents are both horrific and shocking. It highlights once again how children are completely reliant on the adults whose responsibility it is to care for them.”

“Neglect is often hidden from view but is the most common form of child abuse with severe and long-lasting consequences for victims’ physical and mental health. It’s everyone’s responsibility to speak out if they have any worries about a child to help prevent further harm.”

For advice and support, call the NSPCC 24-hour helpline on 0808 800 5000, text 88858 or email help@nspcc.org.uk. Children can also speak to Childline on 0800 1111.