6 December (Part 1) - It can happen anywhere
While the tragic case of
Arthur Labinjo-Hughes continues to dominate the headlines a reminder that much
the same happened in Bexley ten years ago.
Rhys Lawrie from Erith died with 39 injuries to his young body and the police said
his death was due to falling off a sofa. His mother was allowed to clean the blood off her walls. Social
workers in Bexley had ignored the school teacher’s warnings and one from the GP,
their excuses including that it was Christmas and they would attend to the matter once the party season was over.
The Serious Case Review was chaired by a previous Bexley Children’s Services’ employee and the
Cabinet Member for Children’s Services refused to answer a public question on the subject in Council.
The family was convinced that Bexley Council covered up their failings with
police assistance and there was a serious miscarriage of justice. The most
important witnesses were not called to Court.