The Story We demanded help for our sick children. We were accused of abuse.
Jul 20, 2025
Emily Dugan, a special correspondent for The Sunday Times, investigates the harrowing experiences of families falsely accused of fabricating their children's illnesses. Elly Chapple shares her heart-wrenching story as a mother fighting against false abuse allegations while caring for her ill daughter. The discussion reveals the emotional turmoil these families endure, the systemic flaws in child protection, and the urgent need for reform. They highlight the damaging consequences of unfounded accusations and advocate for greater awareness and support in the healthcare system.
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Ellie's Ordeal With False Abuse Accusation
- Ellie Chapple's daughter Ella was born with Wager syndrome, creating complex disabilities.
- After Ella's severe illness in 2020, Ellie was falsely accused of abuse and barred from taking her daughter home.
FII Overdiagnosed and Rare
- Fabricated or induced illness (FII) is extremely rare but appears overrepresented in child abuse accusations.
- Guidelines may exaggerate its frequency, causing many innocent families trauma and separation.
Powerlessness Amid Accusations
- Accusations led to Ellie having supervised, limited contact with her daughter for weeks.
- She felt powerless, despite a lifetime defending her daughter's rights and needs.