XY Twins Inflicted Injury, In the Matter Of (Naming Perpetrator) (Re Publication) [2024] EWFC 414 (B)
Summary
The court had previously determined that Emily Waters, employed as a maternity nurse, was responsible for the injuries. The main issue in this judgment is whether her name should be included in the published judgment.
The local authority, the parents, the children’s guardian, and other interveners support naming Emily Waters in the judgment. Emily Waters opposes this, citing potential impacts on her mental health and future employment.
Waters argues that naming her could affect her mental health and future employment opportunities. She also suggests that the decision should be deferred until the conclusion of any criminal proceedings.
The court decided to name Emily Waters in the judgment, emphasising the principle of open justice and the public interest in knowing the identity of a childcare professional who caused serious injuries. The court noted that the usual justification for anonymity, which is to protect the identity of children, does not apply here as naming her would not identify the children.
While acknowledging the potential negative impact on Emily Waters, the court concluded that this is part of the price for open justice.
The local authority, the parents, the children’s guardian, and other interveners support naming Emily Waters in the judgment. Emily Waters opposes this, citing potential impacts on her mental health and future employment.
Waters argues that naming her could affect her mental health and future employment opportunities. She also suggests that the decision should be deferred until the conclusion of any criminal proceedings.
The court decided to name Emily Waters in the judgment, emphasising the principle of open justice and the public interest in knowing the identity of a childcare professional who caused serious injuries. The court noted that the usual justification for anonymity, which is to protect the identity of children, does not apply here as naming her would not identify the children.
While acknowledging the potential negative impact on Emily Waters, the court concluded that this is part of the price for open justice.