Baby P social workers appeal against sacking

One of Baby P's social workers had permanently to move home and was advised to disguise herself after she was called a "murderer" by members of the public, three judges heard.

Maria Ward was subjected to a "hysterical outcry" by the media "calling for heads to roll" over the little boy's horrific death, according to her barrister, as she launched her latest battle against her sacking by Haringey Council in north London.

A Watford employment tribunal concluded in 2010 the local authority acted reasonably in dismissing Ms Ward, who was Peter Connelly's nominated social worker at the council from February 2007 until his death, and Gillie Christou, her team manager, because of serious failings in their care of the toddler. They say they were unfairly sacked and have taken their cases to the Court of Appeal.