A MOTHER has been spared jail for neglecting her young child – her second such offence in five years – after a court heard she was suffering from depression and a rare, serious health condition.

When police went to the 34-year-old woman’s home in Stockton they were overwhelmed by the stench of urine and faeces, so much so that an officer had to leave the property several times to be sick.

Teesside Crown Court heard there was dog poo in every room, including the child’s bedroom, while carpets were soiled and belongings strewn about.

The defendant, who appeared at court in a wheelchair, was said to be unable to cope with household tasks and suffered from the very rare Guillain-Barré syndrome.

It affects the nerves and causes problems such as numbness, weakness and pain in the feet, hands and limbs.

She admitted neglecting the child and causing unnecessary suffering in May last year, having been convicted of a similar offence in 2012.

Prosecutor Emma Atkinson said back then the child was being washed with wet wipes since there was no hot, running water, while rooms were full of rubbish.

The court was told the defendant, who The Northern Echo is not naming in order to protect her child’s identity, had been hospitalised for a period because of her condition.

Duncan McReddie, mitigating, said she suffered from depression and could not cope.

He said: “There is no wilful conduct or desire to cause harm to the child. She is highly embarrassed and feels remorse.

“She accepts that she will not have the care of the child at any time in the future.”

Judge Peter Armstrong said it was the duty of any parent to provide a suitable home for their child and hers had been in a poor state.

The judge said he did not feel it was necessary to impose a short jail sentence. Instead she was made subject of a three year community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement.