This independent review has been undertaken with all of the agencies across Central Bedfordshire, Suffolk and Norfolk that had any involvement with Isabella and her mother.
The full report is available on the Central Bedfordshire, Suffolk, and Norfolk Children’s Safeguarding Partnership websites, along with a statement from the three partnerships.
Councillor Steve Owen, Executive Member for Children and Families at Central Bedfordshire Council said:
I share the public’s concern about the tragic and unnecessary death of Isabella Wheildon. My thoughts remain with her family and all those affected by this devastating loss.
The expert review of professional practice across the various agencies in Central Bedfordshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk that had contact with Isabella and her mother is thorough, and there are clear learnings to take forward.
My focus is on ensuring that the learning from Isabella’s story makes a real difference here in Central Bedfordshire and beyond, and on doing our utmost to keep children, especially young children, as safe as possible. I know officers in Central Bedfordshire have been deeply saddened by Isabella’s death and have already implemented many of the recommendations.
I will also contact my counterparts in Suffolk and Norfolk to see how we can, together, ensure Isabella’s story brings real change across our areas to better protect children.