Devotion Doctors

Thanks.

Oh, thanks. I need that. My feet are killing me.

-Very glam.

-What?

Oh, yeah, I probably should have taken it off before I came

to work, but my lodger did it, and it took her so long.

Well, before you get too relaxed, just brought in, Angela Darwood, 56.

General signs of self-neglect and minor injuries.

Not another D and D?

I don't know where they get the stamina this time in the morning.

No, she made a 999 call at 7:18, claiming she'd killed her mother.

-Oh!

-A woman was pronounced dead at the scene,

found lying at the foot of the stairs with signs of a head trauma.

Detainee resisted arrest and was in a state of confusion

when she was brought in.

OK, so general physical exam and psychiatric assessment.

Yeah. She's also refusing to give up her clothes for forensics.

Oh, good(!)

-And call me if...

-Stop fussing. We'll be fine.

-Love you.

-Love you too. Bye.

BABY GURGLES

Hi, Ruhma, it's Rob. I'm calling about Marnie.

No, no, no. Everything's fine.

No, in fact, we think that we could be doing more for her.

Yesterday you mentioned someone who specialises in...

Yeah, that's right, Ellen. Ellen Pragnell, yeah.

Well, if you don't mind, that would be great. I'll just get a pen.

Thank you. Hello, Angela, I'm Dr Reid.

If it's all right with you,

I'd like to have a little look at those cuts and grazes.

They're not clean.

Oh, don't worry, I've seen plenty of grubby feet.

You should see the state of mine.

I'm just worried that those cuts might get infected, so...

I've got to get back home. Can you help me?

I've got to get back to the birds.

Right, well, look, I can pass your concerns on to the Custody Sergeant,

-but we need to look after you first.

-They can't fly.

They need me. They'll die on their own.

OK, Angela, try not to worry about that now, OK?

The bruise on your neck - can you tell me how you got that?

What are they going to do to me now she's gone?

It's no bother. I'm always happy to help a mate of Ruhma's,

and it's this little one I really want to say hello to.

Yes, you. Hello, poppet.

Heart-breakers, every one of them.

Hard to imagine how any parent could...

Don't judge unless you've been there.

-Should I...?

-Yeah, do.

-You're a copper, aren't you?

-Yeah.

Yeah, I recognise you from the Treehouse investigation.

We could do with a few more like you.

-Ooh!

-You OK?

Yeah, just arthritis in my hips.

Wear and tear from carrying babies my entire adult life. It passes.

-BABY CRIES

-Oh, I won't be a mo.

-Take your time.

-Thanks.

Well, we like her, don't we? We do.

We really do like her, don't we?

She's lovely.

Wow, that was quick. How did you do that?

I have this special way of holding him. It works well with NAS babies.

-Neo-natal Abstinence Syndrome.

-Yeah.

Each one is different, mind.

And it doesn't matter how much baby fostering experience you've had -

nothing ever seems to prepare you.

You see, we've only had teenagers up to now.

You're kidding!

Talk about deep end!

Well, that's how desperate they are to place these poor babies.

Don't get me wrong, I'm sure you and your partner are more than capable,

but...

The thing is, Ellen, I'm not sure that we are.

Let's start with your blood pressure.

Crimson Rose. Mum's favourite.

Can you roll up your sleeve for me?

OK, I'm just going to put this on your wrist, all right?

There we go.

ANGELA INHALES SHARPLY

I'm sorry, did that hurt?

Quiet, Angela, shut your fat mouth.

OK, just relax, it's all right. That's better.

Lovely hair, like Mum's.

Silky and soft.

Like yours, but curly.

She had a special brush.

'Sometimes she'd let me do it.'

Bet you wish you had hair like mine. Poor little mouse.

'I tried to be careful, but I'd mess it up.'

Ow! Stupid girl. Get your greasy hands off me.

Parents often snap at their children

for things that aren't their fault, don't they?

She was fiery, that's all.

Most of the time, when I was good, she was lovely.

There we go.

They love to be held closely. Gives her a bit more support.

Well, I've been here less than half an hour,

and already I've learnt loads.

Perseverance and patience - you'll get there in the end.

Got to love it, mind, or it'll send you crazy.

Yeah, and I do.

But it's not always enough, is it?

How do you mean?

Well, I'm starting to wonder whether or not we've been selfish,

thinking about what we can get out of it,

rather than what Marnie really needs.

Don't go beating yourself up. We're none of us saints,

but if you're starting to have serious doubts...

Well, I'M not, no, but my wife, Karen, she has health issues.

Oh, dear, bless her. I'm in the same boat -

I would love to take on more babies, but my GP says no.

Oh. Well, you've got to look after your own health first, haven't you?

Mm. The older children don't take such physical toll,

but my daughter said she'll disown me if I don't slow down.

Yeah. It's good that she's looking out for you.

But there are so many babies needing help.

I mean, Karen would do anything for Marnie, but...

But?

Her health issues - they're psychological.

Go on.

A few years ago, she had a head trauma that led to amnesia.

She couldn't remember anything past adolescence,

and that included me and the kids.

I mean, she's been stable for ages, but since Marnie...

What did Social Services say about that?

They don't know.

-You have to tell them.

-I'm sort of stuck -

there were no more placements, we were a last resort.

That's their job to sort out.

Yeah, but we all know what happens when the system breaks down.

I'll muddle through, on my own, somehow.

Well, I've got to, haven't I? For her sake.

You're not off yet? I haven't even offered you a cuppa.

Oh, OK, should I make it?

Oh, that's kind, yeah. First door on the right.

Yeah, it would be a shame to disturb her.

Thanks.

Let's have a look.

Well, anaemia can be a result of poor diet.

You're not looking after yourself properly.

Your hands are gentle.

Like Mum's.

Like they used to be. Soft.

Are you a mum, doctor?

Yes, I have a son.

Are you very close?

Well, it's not always been easy. He's in Australia now.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Me and Mum were very close.

"Us against the world," she'd say.

Until some nasty man would show up,

and spoil it. When they stayed, it was bad enough,

but when they left...

You know why he's gone?

Couldn't stand the wretched, snivelling sight of you!

'Red mist, she called it.'

Stupid, ugly...

Mummy, no!

Silly mouse.

Stop all this fuss and nonsense.

It's all right. I know you don't mean it. Come here.

What's the matter?

Don't you love me any more?

There, that's it.

That's my girl.

Us against the world, kid.

Now, clear up this mess like a good girl,

and we'll forget it ever happened.

'Clear up the mess, like it never happened, make it all right.'

Start again, start again... Too late, stupid girl.

Stupid, stupid, stupid, girl!

Enough, Angela, stop, stop!

No, no, no! It's no use!

I'm not right. I never have been.

You'll see, you'll find out.

I hear what you're saying, but if I'm careful how I plan my shifts,

then Marnie shouldn't have to spend too much time alone with Karen.

With the best will in the world,

it only takes a moment for something to go wrong.

And I wish that she was going to a safe pair of hands,

but with the system being so stretched...

Look, I know it's tough, but...

I think I ought to be getting her back home.

Rob, wait. I'm really not trying to interfere, but how about

I have a word with Jane, and see if she'll let me take Marnie on?

You're an amazing woman, Ellen,

but I can't let you risk your own health.

Oh, so my joints are a bit creaky and my daughter will have a sulk

with me. Oh, and I'll probably get a ticking off from my GP, but

it's nothing I can't handle to give this little one a fighting chance.

She's smiling.

Oh, that expression - that's a withdrawal reflex.

-Is it?

-Mm.

You know, I can't imagine her being better off with anyone else.

Then, please, let me do this.

-If you're sure you're well enough.

-I am.

OK. Well, the least I can do is go and tell Jane myself.

Fair enough.

Thank you.

KNOCK AT DOOR

Come in.

Sorry to interrupt, Dr Reid. Two lads been in a fight -

nothing serious, but one's demanding to see a doctor.

Right, well, I'm not quite finished here, so...

Maybe you can check him over in the cell? You stay with the detainee,

and see if you can get her clothes bagged up.

-Can you give me a moment?

-Of course.

Angela, I'm going to have to leave you with the

female police officer for a while.

I heard what he said. They're not having it.

I'd really like to check that bruise before I go.

-Can I help you get changed?

-That why you're being nice to me?

-Get what you want, then go?

-It's not like that.

Get your filthy hands off me! You don't care about me!

Only my mum cared about me!

She got me this, and no-one's getting it off me!

Angela, please.

If you're going to go, you'd better go.

So, in short, Karen is just not coping.

I'm sorry, Rob, but you can't just turn up unannounced because

Karen's feeling stressed. I'm already running late for my home

visits, I've got three more children to try and place before tonight.

Do you think I'd be wasting your time if this wasn't serious?

Right, go on.

Karen's been OK with the older children, but there seems to be

something about caring for a baby that's triggered her amnesia.

Already, a few times, she's mistaken Marnie for our own daughter, Imogen.

Caring for a baby with acute needs is all-consuming.

Do you think it could be an adjustment problem?

Well, that's what I thought, but if anything, it's getting worse.

Has she spoken to her GP?

No, because she's in denial. Whenever I try and broach it

with her, she gives me the full tears, anger, the whole works.

All right, let me speak to my line manager,

and I will set up a priority meeting with you and Karen.

I don't think you understand how volatile Karen is at the moment.

I mean, if she even knew that I was talking to you...

I can't just ignore what you've told me.

I don't want you to.

I think the best thing that can happen for Marnie now is that

she's taken out of our care as soon as possible.

No, there are procedures, Rob. Unless Marnie is in imminent danger,

I can't just take her out of your care.

Marnie's not safe to be left alone with Karen.

What do you mean by that, exactly?

Only the other day,

Karen was holding Marnie and Marnie was screaming.

Then Karen just handed her to me and then walked out,

and I mean walked out of the house.

But you were there, right, to take over?

-But what if I wouldn't have been?

-But you were.

All right, then. Yesterday, I went into the kitchen, and Karen's about

to give her a bottle, and I could see the milk was almost boiling,

so I took it off her, I tested it, and it would have scalded her

if I would have been a second later

All right, you need to stay with Marnie at all times.

No, why aren't you getting what I'm saying here?

Believe me, Rob, Marnie's safety is my absolute priority, but even

if we had another placement lined up, I have to follow procedure.

Ellen Pragnell. Have you considered Ellen Pragnell?

-You know Ellen?

-Yes.

Absolutely, she's one of the best but she's adamant - no more babies.

You might want to check on that, because only today,

she said that she would take Marnie in a heartbeat.

-Really?

-Mm-hm.

-All right, let me give her a call.

After I've spoken to Karen.

-No, no, no. Karen's at work.

-No, it's fine.

Hi, this is Karen. Leave a message.

Karen, hi, it's Jane.

Could you give me a call as soon as you get this message, please?

Thanks.

Right, I will keep my phone on, and then I'll call you back

as soon as I hear anything, Rob.

Thank you.

I didn't think you'd come back.

I didn't mean to lose my temper, I just get so...

Will you stay with me this time, if I do what you want?

-Yes.

-I don't mean to be a bother.

Angela, you are very much worth bothering about,

which is why I'd like to examine you properly, so I know how to help you.

Will you let me?

Good.

All right, shall we start with the buttons?

Used to get tangled when I was little. Made Mum laugh.

She said having a little girl made us more like best friends.

We'd have special nights in. Salon nights, she called them.

She loved having her shoulders rubbed,

as long as I didn't press too hard.

And if I was really careful, she'd let me do her nails.

'And when she was poorly, I'd stroke her brow, ever so gentle,

'like a feather.'

What? What's wrong?

I, er...

The bite marks.

Oh, it's the dementia. It makes her frightened. She forgets who I am.

I'm so sorry.

You mustn't be sad. Don't mind me.

I do mind.

Angela, didn't you tell somebody, try and ask for help?

They wouldn't understand, not like you.

I'm doing this for you. I am. You're going to be safer.

PHONE RINGS

Hi, Jane. Have you heard from Karen?

No, neither have I.

That quickly?

No, no, that's good.

I'll have her ready. OK, I'll see you then.

That's it now. You're going to be safe!

Mum was a dancer, before she got stuck with me.

The way she moved, even in those heels. It was like she was floating!

'I wasn't supposed to go in there by myself,

'but you never knew which way she'd turn.'

Give us a twirl.

-You think it's funny?

-No.

Creeping around, stealing my make-up, spoiling my things.

You want something to laugh about - take a good look.

'She said, "Look! Look at yourself!"

'But I couldn't.'

I couldn't look.

We're going to get you some help.

No help now, no use, not now she's gone.

I begged her to stay. Every night, I begged her.

Little mouse.

Mummy, please, don't go.

-Mummy!

-Bye, darling.

'Never knew when she was coming back.'

So I had to stop her.

'I couldn't be left... I couldn't stand being left on my own again.'

GASP, THUMP

I didn't mean to kill her, you know, it just happened so quick.

Angela, breathe.

You don't have to tell me how your mother was hurt.

No, no, no, no.

I'd never hurt Mum. I love her.

I should never have let her in.

Kindness tricks, not like you.

I tried to tell her she'll die in a home.

It's only me who knows how to look after her, but she had this paper

from the court, and she was coming to take Mum away.

So I had to stop her, didn't I?

Please. Please, don't tell me any more.

She'll not survive without me. So I've killed my mum.

I've killed her!

I have to stop you...

-Oh, no, don't go yet.

-Can I have some help in here?

Don't be frightened. I wouldn't hurt you.

I've been thinking, right, about your son.

Him being so far away, and with me, and Mum gone...

OK, you need to let go of me.

No. You can't go. You promised!

Everything all right, Doctor?

Yes. I need to have a word with you outside.

ANGELA SOBS

Oh, come on, Jane. Where is she, eh? Where's Jane?

CAR PARKS

I think she's here!

What are you doing here?

-Surprise!

-Spoke to Jane?

Don't worry, I haven't come to check up on you.

Is she in there?

Hello! So, yeah, I got your message about you having handled it all,

but do I need to call her back?

No, no, it's just about some forms.

OK.

Mrs Tembe, bless her,

she's so worried about how tired you looked yesterday.

-I'm fine. You can go back to work.

-I told her...

You on your way out?

-Just got back in.

-Oh.

Well, I need to hear all about your morning, don't I?

Yes, I do.

Deceased identified as 62-year-old social worker, Victoria Dunwell.

First time she'd gained access to the house, apparently.

But you led me to believe that she'd killed her mother!

No, I said she CLAIMED she'd killed her mother, and it's not my job

to fill you in on the crime details.

All right, but you could have at least told me that

the mother was found alive at the scene.

They found her later, cowering in the back garden,

terrified and disorientated. Took them 20 minutes to get her out.

-Is she all right?

-Transferred to hospital.

Superficial cuts and bruises from where they had to pull her out.

Well, that's nothing in comparison to what she's done to Angela.

Hold up. Why don't you debrief me, then you can finish off your

paperwork until the mental health team get here?

Thanks, but I'd like to see this one through.

Look, I can see she's got to you, but...

No, it's not about my feelings. I have a duty of care,

and if I don't go back in there and explain,

I'll just be another person who's abandoned her.

Be careful.

Are we going home now?

Angela, I've come to say goodbye.

No! You can't go! What's going to happen if you go?

You'll be given a full psychiatric assessment,

and then, based on that...

But I'll be all right when we get back home.

We need to get back to the birds, just you and me, like it used to be.

I don't think you're going to be able to go home for a while.

You may need to go to hospital for a little bit.

You're a doctor - you can look after me, and I can look after you.

Sergeant Wearing is going to make sure that

-you're well looked after now.

-No! No, don't go! Please!

I'll be good. I'll do anything that you want.

I'll do anything! Please, just don't leave me again!

I'm so sorry.

No, Mummy, please, no! Stay with me, please.

Stay with me! Please don't leave me!

Oh, look at her, she's so beautiful!

DOORBELL RINGS

Oh, whoever that is, just send them away.

Who's at the door?

Karen's here, but I haven't told her yet.

That's good - it'll give me a chance to explain.

No, no. The way she is at the moment,

explaining will just make things worse.

The kindest, the best and the kindest thing you can do right now

is to make this as quick and simple as possible.

She has a right to know why.

Yeah, of course she does, and she needs to hear that from me.

So after you've done your job, then I will do mine,

and I will explain everything.

-OK.

-Thank you.

Oh, dear.

Oh, my goodness.

I'm so sorry this place is a mess.

Rob was looking after Marnie all morning, and I just...

Karen, I've come to take Marnie.

We've found a more suitable placement for her.

Now? What more suitable placement?

Erm...

It's probably best that we do this as quickly as possible.

I mean, have we done something wrong?

It was a real struggle in the beginning,

but she's really coming on now. Do we not we get any notice?

It's just that we've found someone

who can provide the degree of specialist care that she needs.

Well, that's a real shame, cos she's really settling down.

She's thriving, isn't she?

I do understand that this is very difficult, Karen,

but I need you to go and gather up her things for me.

I think it's best to give her Marnie now,

but then we will try and sort this out later.

This is going to sound really daft, but I'm going to miss her so much.

No, can we not have a little bit more time,

so I can say goodbye properly?

I do need to take her now, Karen.

This has come as a bit of a shock, and I will get her things,

-but can we have a minute, please?

-Of course.

I'm sorry.

I really am sorry.

I'm so sorry.

Don't you remember? You touched me.

"Dr Miracle and his Magic Hands?"

The phone's ringing off the hook

with women wanting appointments with Daniel.

All I have to do is lay on my "magic hands",

and before you can say abracadabra, my patient is pregnant.

Marriage can be life-affirming.

When it works, it's wonderful, but when it doesn't...

It's like an emotional car crash. Bang!