Two social workers have been sacked as a result of the tragic death of John Smith at the hands of his adoptive parents.

The McWilliams were convincing in their stories of John's self abuse.

As articulate carers appealing to all the professionals for help in dealing with this fictitious behaviour, they were given support and encouragement in taking on such a difficult child.

Dave Pamely and John Barrow are both highly skilled and very experienced social workers. Both were used to dealing with child protection cases and not easily "hoodwinked". Yet they were.

As were the managers supervising their work. As were the health visitors who saw John Smith. As were the teachers and the head at his school.

All believed the tales of extraordinary behaviour, though none had witnessed it themselves, as such behaviour is not uncommon in a child who has finally been placed in a permanent home after a life of neglect and disruption.

The McWilliams systematically and convincingly lied to everyone to cover their tracks and to pave the way for further abuse and the ultimate death of the child in their care.

They are now, quite rightly, serving prison sentences for their cruelty. Mr Pamely and Mr Barrow have been sacked.

Yes, mistakes were made but why is it the social workers are the scapegoats when the McWilliams so cynically and expertly ensured their lies were consistently spread to, and believed by, all the professionals concerned?

-Rachel Foggitt rachel.foggitt@ntlworld.com