A serious case review has revealed that Tania Clarence, the mother who killed her three disabled children in 2014, had become overwhelmed by their care as early as 2010. Clarence, 43, from New Malden, south-west London, pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility and was detained under a hospital order in November 2015.
The children—three-year-old twins Max and Ben, and four-year-old Olivia—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 2014 after Clarence smothered them.
The review noted that professionals recognised Clarence was probably depressed by the end of 2010, following the birth of her twins that summer. She was overwhelmed by the high number of appointments and reported never having a full night's sleep. Despite being tearful and tired, she refused help for suspected depression.
The report made 14 recommendations, including that child-in-need planning should be led by a social worker, parents should be offered counselling when a child is diagnosed with a disability, and a clear system should be established to flag child protection referrals. However, it concluded that the killings were not preventable.
Up to 60 professionals were involved with the family. The review highlighted a tension between supporting the family and using child protection measures, as well as ethical dilemmas about the children's quality of life. The parents had signed a 'do not resuscitate' order and prioritised quality of life over life-lengthening treatment.
