08/06/04 - Independent review of the death of Michael Dickinson

Cumbria’s multi-agency Child Protection Committee have today issued a statement following the decision in the case of Michelle Dickinson. The statement covers the current position regarding the independently chaired review of agency involvement with the family prior to the death of Michael. 

“The Inter Agency review has been completed. We have been unable to publish a report of the review due to the ongoing criminal process. In the light of today’s decision the Area Child Protection Committee will meet shortly and work towards publishing a report at the earliest opportunity. 

As was stated on the completion of the original trial of Michelle Dickinson this is an unusual and complex case involving a wide number of agencies both from within Cumbriaand beyond. It deals with a situation rarely faced by support agencies. 

It is important that a full and thorough review of all agencies actions is completed. If there are lessons to be learned they will be clearly identified and recommendations put forward to further improve child protection procedures if appropriate.”