Story perspectives

National Review Uncovers Failures in Child Safeguarding Support

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The national child safeguarding review finds systemic failures in providing trauma-informed support to parents whose children are taken into care.
The case of Constance Marten and Mark Gordon, convicted of manslaughter, illustrates these failures.
The review notes the couple's isolation and lack of assistance after prior child removals influenced their decision to hide Victoria.
It recommends improved engagement with families and national guidance on safeguarding practices.

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Story summary

The national child safeguarding review finds systemic failures in providing trauma-informed support to parents whose children are taken into care.
The case of Constance Marten and Mark Gordon, convicted of manslaughter, illustrates these failures.
The review notes the couple's isolation and lack of assistance after prior child removals influenced their decision to hide Victoria.
It recommends improved engagement with families and national guidance on safeguarding practices.