THREE years ago Brenda Rowley was devastated when her severely handicapped son died after being left alone in a bath at his Salford social services care home.
The Astley mum vowed to win justice for the 30-year-old's death.
She refused to let the matter lie, battling on resolutely towards her aim.
Thanks to her perseverance, which included finding legal backing from Bolton solicitor, Craig Morris, who has charged no fees, Brenda saw an inquest jury return the verdict she wanted that neglect had played a part in Malcolm's accidental death.
Then came a health and safety executive prosecution which led to social services being fined £125,000.
Now she has at last received a written apology and it comes with an agreed personal injury settlement of £1,750 -- a derisory sum for the life of her child.
But that is still not enough.
Brenda wants to see a corporate manslaughter charge brought and won't rest until she gets it.
The money is not an issue, and never has been, and will be used to fight on towards her goal.
The award is obscene and doesn't reflect the level of neglect on a man who had the mental capacity of a four-month-old and couldn't walk or talk.
When police and teachers can pick of compensation packages of up to £200,000 for job related stress, there's something cockeyed somewhere.
Brenda deserves much more if only for her dogged determination and her attitude that they can't wipe Malcolm away as unimportant, he was worth more than that.
The courage and fighting spirit of the woman is beyond belief -- and now she is helping others in similar situations through a website in Malcolm's name. Good on you, Brenda.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article