Re RJ (minors) (fostering: wardship)

This case involved three children; H, a girl born on 24 April 1986, and her two half-brothers; M, born on 20 May 1988, and B, who was born on 13 May 1991. The children all had different fathers, none of whom was involved in these proceedings. The mother had had a difficult childhood and had been in care herself. She was only 17 when she gave birth to H. She began by coping well but drifted into an unstable lifestyle and eventually, a violent long-term relationship. She had abused alcohol and drugs and had nearly thirty convictions, mainly for shoplifting. She admitted that she had difficulty putting the children’s interests first. In September 1996 the children were placed with foster parents, Mr and Mrs T, by the local authority.

Rehabilitating them with the mother was considered at first, but by May 1997 the local authority decided the children should stay long-term with Mr and Mrs T.