Hainey was considered good mum

Kimberley Hainey was assessed as being "devoted" to Declan, who was found dead in a cot in March 2010.

His mummified remains had lain in the litter-filled cot for so long it was covered in dead insects.

The 39-year-old was jailed for life for neglecting and murdering him but released last April on appeal.

Yesterday at a Fatal Accident Inquiry into how he died, a senior social worker said that he and colleagues, and Hainey herself, thought she was a good mum.

But he said that she became "really worried" when Declan experienced normal bodily functions.

Referring to a report he had compiled on her, Hugh Madden said: "She seemed over-concerned for Declan's health and well-being. This is seen as a weakness."

When asked by Sheriff Ruth Anderson, who is presiding over the FAI, to expand on his report, Mr Madden said: "Every wee cough or sneeze she was becoming overly-concerned about it."

The witness said the report showed that having Declan had changed Hainey's life.

He said: "She cares well and is concerned for Declan and is a good and loving mother.

"The report indicates Kimberley is a good and attentive mother.

"She indicated that being a mother had changed her whole outlook on life.

"She was obviously devoted to Declan."

Mr Madden said the report was compiled by speaking to Hainey, close family members such as her mum Elizabeth Rodden, and her husband John, NHS health visitors and staff from New Expectations, an organisation run by the Social Work Department which helps drug addicts.

When asked about heroin addict Hainey's use of drugs and alcohol, Mr Madden said: "The report states she is never under the influence of any substances when with Declan.

"She said she only took methadone."

When asked if they would have taken different steps with Hainey if drugs hadn't been as involved, he said: "Yes, there would have been different decisions."

The inquiry continues at Paisley Sheriff Court.