Learning from the Review
• The Finding of Fact hearing against Father influenced how
professionals approached and responded to Helen's sexualised
behaviour and also to further safeguarding concerns. At times, the
sexualised behaviours were attributed to the previous sexual
harm, with the concerns around any potential ongoing sexual
abuse being dismissed and not considered in the wider context of
safeguarding.
• Professionals' responses were also influenced by Helen's
diagnosis of autism, with professionals considering that her
sexualised behaviours and her condition were linked.
• Whilst it was known that Mother had a borderline learning
disability, reports indicated she was functioning at a high level.
The full extent of Mother's difficulties, in terms of her ability to
communicate with and understand the expectations of
professionals, was not truly understood or verified. Mother was
known to have several significant vulnerabilities and the review
found professionals were not proactive in verifying Mother's ability
to respond to concerns.