A vigil for Jayla

The devastated parents of one-year-old Jayla-Jean Mclaren, who tragically died in hospital on Sunday, are calling for Rainbow Park in Sandown to be renamed ‘Jayla’s Park’ in her honour. The park was not only her favourite place to play, it was also the last place her parents spent time with her before her death.

Police were first called at 11.34am last Friday (August 1) to a report of a child being taken to hospital with serious injuries. Jayla was initially taken to St Mary’s Hospital, but later moved to Southampton General Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on Sunday afternoon.
A 31-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman, both from Newport, were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. They have been released on conditional police bail while investigations continue.

Shay and Jay Mclaren, whose daughter’s name was an amalgamation of their own, say renaming the park would be a lasting tribute to a little girl whose life, though brief, brought much joy. “She loved that place so much,” said Shay. “It would be a fitting tribute to this beautiful, absolute dear of a child.”

A memorial gathering was held last night (Thursday) at Church Litten, in Newport, where Islanders came together to pay their respects. Flowers, cards, and balloons were laid, and pink ribbons were tied to tree branches by friends, neighbours, and strangers moved by Jayla’s story. The atmosphere was one of sorrow and quiet outrage.

The vigil also became a moment for some present to voice their concerns about the Island’s social services. Several spoke candidly about their own experiences, describing a system they feel is failing vulnerable families.

“Parents who are struggling – especially those with mental health issues – need support, not suspicion,” said one. “Social workers sometimes use their authority against people who can’t fight back. And when children must be removed, they can be placed with carers who have no experience with children.”

Another added: “If you’ve had a difficult background yourself, you need guidance, not judgment. You need a number to call when you’re overwhelmed – but that just isn’t there.”

A spokeswoman for the IW Council said: “We want to acknowledge the deeply tragic nature of this case and extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected. However, Jayla, was not known to the Isle of Wight Council Children’s Services nor receiving support, care, or intervention from them.”

In the wake of her daughter’s death, Shay has asked that donations be made to the Children’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at Southampton University Hospital. “The nurses there went above and beyond to try to save Jayla,” she said. “And there are so many sick children there who need help.”

Thank you to our readers who have pointed out that Rainbow Park in Sandown was named after Steven Jenkins, whose family have twice raised funds for the park. We sincerely apologise for any offence or upset caused by the reported comments by Jayla’s mum – who we are sure was unaware of the history of the park. Our condolences go to both families who have lost much-loved children.