A serious case review has found that Tania Clarence, who killed her three disabled children in 2014, had become 'overwhelmed' by their care as early as 2010. The 43-year-old mother from New Malden, south-west London, admitted the manslaughter of her twins Max and Ben, aged three, and daughter Olivia, aged four, on the grounds of diminished responsibility.
The children all suffered from spinal muscular atrophy type 2, a life-shortening condition causing severe muscle weakness. They were found dead at their home on 22 April after being smothered by their mother. Clarence was detained under a hospital order in November last year.
The review noted that professionals recognised as early as 2010 that Clarence was probably depressed and 'overwhelmed' by the high number of appointments following the birth of her twins that summer. Up to 60 professionals were involved with the family, but the review concluded the killings were not preventable despite making 14 recommendations.
Clarence was observed to have an affectionate relationship with her children, but the premature births of the twins caused a 'huge emotional and practical adjustment'. She told health practitioners she never had a full night's sleep and was often tearful and tired, but refused help for suspected depression. Her husband said she had dedicated her life to caring for the children.
The report highlighted tensions between supporting the family and using child protection measures. Professionals had concerns Clarence did not always follow advice, and a discussion about whether the child protection threshold had been reached 'was never agreed'. Two local authorities and two hospitals explored legal intervention, but an apparent breakthrough came in April 2014 when the father agreed to a stomach operation for Olivia. Clarence killed the children soon after she was left alone with them.
