Police have launched an urgent appeal to find a young mother who disappeared from a hospital in east London shortly after giving birth.
Concerns Grow for Mother's Welfare
The Metropolitan Police were alerted at around 5pm on Tuesday, 30 December, after the woman, who is in her twenties, left the hospital in Romford. Her newborn baby remains at the hospital under medical supervision and is reported to be in good health.
Officers have stated they are "increasingly concerned" for the woman's welfare due to her vulnerable post-natal state. The search is being treated as a high-priority welfare case, not a criminal investigation.
Appeal from Investigating Officer
Detective Inspector Neil Godwin, who is leading the investigation, made a direct appeal for information. "This woman has just given birth and, because of this, she is extremely vulnerable," he said. "This is not a criminal investigation – we need to locate her to make sure she is ok. It is extremely important that if you know, or have any information about the whereabouts of this woman that you tell us so we can ensure she gets the right support."
Description and How to Help
The missing woman is described as having a slim build and dark hair. She was last seen wearing a light-coloured top and a patterned skirt.
The police are urging anyone who may have seen her or who has any information that could assist the search to come forward immediately.
Anyone with information should call the police on 101, quoting the reference number CAD3892/30Dec.