A teenager tragically lost her life while watching a TV show, and a sheriff’s investigation revealed that her death could have been prevented if her mother had allowed her to receive medical care. Robyn Goldie, 13, suffered excruciating pain and ultimately passed away at her home in Wishaw, Lanarkshire, due to a perforated stomach ulcer. Despite Robyn’s pleas for help, her mother, Sharon Goldie, chose not to take her to the hospital and prevented a neighbor from intervening on the day of her death.
In the days leading up to her passing, Robyn had been feeling unwell, appearing pale and shivering. It was also disclosed that Robyn had been living in unsanitary conditions that contributed to her deteriorating health. A fatal accident inquiry into Robyn’s death revealed that her mother had been neglectful and had disregarded obvious signs of her daughter’s illness. This inquiry also highlighted shortcomings in the social work department of North Lanarkshire Council.
Sheriff Linda Nicolson, presiding over the case, determined that Robyn’s mother should have sought medical attention for her daughter or allowed her to access medical care, which could have potentially saved her life. The sheriff emphasized that while there were flaws in the social work policies and procedures, they did not directly lead to Robyn’s death. The council has since implemented changes to address the issues identified during the inquiry.
Goldie, the mother, admitted to neglecting her daughter and was convicted in 2020. Despite her cognitive and physical challenges resulting from a previous brain injury, she was found guilty of failing to provide proper care to her daughter. The sheriff’s determination did not recommend any specific actions against the council but acknowledged the need for improved systems and decision-making processes.
Robyn’s death prompted a thorough investigation, and a Fatal Accident Inquiry was conducted to address public concerns and ensure transparency in the legal process. The family has been provided with the sheriff’s determination, and the authorities expressed condolences to them during this difficult time. Goldie was sentenced to three years and six months in prison for her actions leading to Robyn’s tragic death.
