16/06/2026
A message of care and support to our families 💜
Many of you may have seen recent media coverage relating to the tragic death of baby Preston Davey. We are deeply aware that this news is distressing and may have stirred strong emotions including shock, sadness, anger, fear, or memories of painful experiences from your own lives or journeys to family life.
At the heart of this case is the loss of a child’s life. We hold Preston in our prayers, and we grieve for him and for all those who loved him. No words can lessen the horror of what has happened.
We also recognise that for some families, particularly those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse, or involvement with care systems, media reporting like this can feel overwhelming or re‑triggering. It is completely understandable if you are finding this difficult to process, or if it has unsettled your sense of safety or trust.
As a Catholic adoption agency, our work is rooted in the belief that every child is precious, deserving of love, protection, and dignity. Adoption exists first and foremost as a safeguarding response, to offer children who cannot remain with their birth families the chance of safety, permanence, and care. When that trust is broken in such a devastating way, it impacts not only those directly involved but the wider community of families and professionals.
While independent reviews are underway to understand what went wrong in this case, we want to be clear about what matters most right now:
this tragedy is not the fault of children, families, or communities
one horrific case must never define or diminish the many families
who provide safe, loving homes
your feelings and responses matter, whatever they may be
We remain committed to the highest standards of safeguarding and to learning honestly and carefully whenever harm occurs, while continuing to support families with compassion rather than judgement.
If this coverage has affected you, you do not need to carry it alone. Our team is here to listen, to offer space for conversation, and to support you in whatever way feels helpful — whether that is practical support, emotional support, or simply being heard.
Please reach out to your social worker or to the agency if you would like to talk.
We hold little Preston, his family and all our families close in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
The team at St Margarets 🙏🏻
