A coroner has determined that a baby died after being administered an antihistamine by a nanny, who likely intended to sedate him. The inquest revealed significant shortcomings in the Metropolitan Police’s investigation into the incident involving the eight-week-old infant.
Professor Fiona Wilcox, the coroner for Inner West London, expressed her concerns in a report aimed at preventing future fatalities, highlighting the absence of a national regulatory framework for nannies. She recorded an open verdict and noted her apprehension that the nanny responsible for the child’s care continues to work in that capacity.
Details of the Incident
During the inquest held in February, evidence was presented regarding the baby’s death on January 15 at his home. The child was discovered unresponsive in a bassinet around 06:15 GMT by the night nanny. Despite attempts at resuscitation and the arrival of an ambulance, the baby was pronounced dead at 07:00.
The coroner confirmed that the antihistamine chlorpheniramine was detected in the baby’s bloodstream at the time of death, stating, „This was probably administered to [the baby] by the night nanny.“ Wilcox elaborated, stating, „The baby had been described as unsettled and fussy and a baby who woke frequently in the night. The chlorpheniramine was probably administered to sedate the baby to sleep.“ While expert testimony acknowledged that the drug could have contributed to the infant’s death, it could not be definitively established that it was the cause.
Investigation Shortcomings
The coroner’s report indicated that the nanny had been responsible for the baby’s care throughout the night on the second floor of the family residence. Following the baby’s death, police conducted an initial assessment but failed to seize feeding bottles or investigate bathroom cabinets for medications, resulting in missed forensic opportunities.
„The night nanny was not arrested and interviewed nor their property searched until October 2024. By then, of course, all forensic opportunities had been lost,“ Wilcox stated.
She further noted that the police appeared to have been reassured by the home environment and did not pursue the matter further. The night nanny testified during the inquest that she regularly participated in training and was still employed as a nanny, registered with two agencies.
Recommendations for Future Safety
In her report aimed at preventing future deaths, Wilcox emphasized the need for updated police training and clearer guidance for nannies regarding the administration of medications like antihistamines. She also suggested that warning labels on products containing chlorpheniramine may require revision.
The medical cause of the baby’s death was classified as sudden unexpected death in infancy, with no clear explanation.
Calls for Regulation
A representative from the National Nanny Association commented on the situation, stating, „Parents are placing trust in individuals using professional titles, often assuming a level of training and oversight that simply isn’t required. That has to change.“ The spokesperson reiterated the association’s long-standing calls for mandatory registration, established standards, and thorough safeguarding checks for nannies, emphasizing the urgency of these reforms.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police expressed condolences to the family following the inquest’s conclusion, stating, „Our thoughts remain with the family of the baby following the conclusion of the inquest into their death. We will consider the concerns raised by the coroner before providing a written response.“
