Care Worker Duo Jailed for Abusing Vulnerable Woman with Rare Syndrome
Two care workers have been locked up after secretly filmed footage revealed them abusing a 43-year-old woman with Angelman Syndrome in a Colchester care home. The victim’s family, devastated but relieved justice has been served, say their daughter has been left deeply traumatised.
Heartbreaking Hidden Camera Footage Exposes Abuse
The woman, who has the mental capacity of a child under five and limited verbal skills due to Angelman Syndrome, was found with unexplained bruises by her worried family. After the care home staff failed to provide any answers, the family installed a hidden camera in her room in February last year.
The footage showed carers Ann-Marie Young, 61, and Catherine Haining, 64, repeatedly slapping, kicking, pulling her hair, and hitting her with items including a TV remote and a roll of tin foil. They also hurled abuse at the vulnerable woman.
Justice Served with Jail Time
The pair were arrested and charged with wilful neglect and ill-treatment. They pleaded guilty at Colchester Magistrates’ Court in July and were each sentenced to eight months in prison at Ipswich Crown Court on 2 September.
Family and Police Speak Out on Trauma
“We are totally devastated by what happened in what should have been trusted care,” said the victim’s parents. “Unexplained bruises, broken furniture, and the girls reluctant to return home—it was heartbreaking. No one listened until we installed the camera and saw the abuse firsthand.”
“Our daughter now suffers PTSD and has lost all trust in carers. The recent lockdowns have prevented us from visiting, adding to the trauma.”
Detective Constable Hannah Richardson, who led the investigation, said: “This is one of the most emotionally impactful cases I’ve handled in 11 years. The carers treated the victim with utter cruelty, showing no empathy. Witnessing the abuse but being powerless to act must have been horrendous for the family.”
“I hope the sentencing brings them some closure and justice for their daughter.”
