A tragic incident in Scotland has come to light during an inquiry where a woman allegedly left her dying 13-year-old daughter watching a TV quiz show called Tipping Point while she went to the pub. The woman, Sharon Goldie, aged 49, reportedly dismissed her daughter Robyn’s deteriorating health as a mere “stomach bug” in July 2018. Despite Robyn’s distressing symptoms, Goldie refrained from seeking medical help, citing that she thought her daughter was exaggerating the severity of her condition.
During the fatal accident inquiry at Hamilton Sheriff Court in South Lanarkshire, it was revealed that Goldie left Robyn unattended at home to go out drinking. Upon her return, she found Robyn unresponsive on the sofa. It was later discovered that Robyn had developed peritonitis, an infection of the inner lining of the stomach, and had also suffered a perforated duodenal ulcer.
Goldie, who hails from Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire, was sentenced to three years and six months in prison in 2020 after admitting to neglect and ill-treatment towards Robyn between July 2017 and July 2018. The neglect involved failing to provide adequate essentials for Robyn, physical abuse, allowing her to consume cannabis and alcohol, and exposing her to unhygienic living conditions.
The inquiry also heard distressing details about how Goldie discouraged Robyn from reporting an alleged rape for fear of medical examinations and court procedures. Goldie claimed that Robyn was “boasting” about the assault and attempted to dissuade her by highlighting the potential negative consequences of reporting the incident. Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC deemed the circumstances of Robyn’s death as a cause for “serious public concern,” prompting the inquiry to delve further into the tragic events.
The investigation continues under Sheriff Linda Nicolson as more details surrounding the case emerge. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prompt and appropriate medical attention in cases of illness or distress, especially when concerning vulnerable individuals like children. Such incidents highlight the need for awareness and vigilance in safeguarding the well-being of young individuals within our communities.
As the inquiry progresses, the hope is that justice will be served for Robyn’s untimely and preventable death, shedding light on the significance of timely intervention and care in safeguarding the lives of those in need.