Social workers could not have predicted that a mum would leave her baby to die alone in a flat while she went out partying, an independent review has ruled.

Verphy Kudi was believed by healthcare professionals to be a loving parent - but abandoned her little girl for six days while she celebrated her 18th birthday.

Asiah, who was just 20 months old, "suffered dreadfully" developing dehydration and severe nappy rash before her death from a combination of starvation and influenza.

Kudi was jailed for nine years for manslaughter and an official report into the tragedy has now been made public. 

The Brighton and Hove Safeguarding Children Partnership review found that no one could have predicted "the appalling nature of what happened".

The report made 17 recommendations to prevent a repeat of the events of December 2019.

These include bringing in a system of daily checks at the accommodation in Islingword Road, Brighton, where Asiah and her mother had been placed.

If a young parent has a social worker, then their child should also have one, the report said. 

The recommendations also include regularly reviewing young parents in supported accommodation and looking at how risks are assessed.

The Argus: Verphy Kudi went to London for her birthday while her baby was at home aloneVerphy Kudi went to London for her birthday while her baby was at home alone

After the report was published, Brighton council's executive director of families Deb Austin said it highlighted the "high level of support and services that were being provided to Asiah and her mother".

She said: "We have strengthened our multi-agency assessments before making changes to a child's plan and updated guidance on a child having a social worker.

"We are also continuing to improve the process for housing and supported accommodation for children with children."

Last year, Kudi appeared at Lewes Crown Court where she admitted manslaughter.

An inquest into Asiah's death is due to be held at Brighton Coroner's Court next year.