Children’s services ‘lost’ child for four years

£5,000 awarded to mother after children’s services ‘lost’ child for four years

Birmingham’s children’s services has been ordered to pay out £5,000 after it ‘lost’ a child with special needs in the social care system for over four years.

The child suffers from autism, attention deficit disorder, dyspraxia and communication difficulties and was confirmed as disabled in November 2006, where her mother was given ten hours of support per month. Following the decision, the family received no contact from social workers and, when they did receive contact, the level of help provided was found to be woefully inadequate.

The girl has since developed posture, sleeping and stability problems.

The child and her mother, who have not been named, will also receive extra fees to cover the shortfall in the service that was provided by the department.

A local government ombudsmen named Dr Jane Martin told birminghammail.co.uk: “For much of this girl’s life, her mother has been left to bring up her child alone and without much help from the council.

“Birmingham City Council has had no idea what her needs were or those of her mother.

“And when they made attempts to assess her, the council admits its service was poor, unsupportive and not focused on an outcome for the girl.”

The council has also agreed to appoint an independent social worker to produce a care plan for the girl and assess her.