Pediatrician Praises Work of Social Workers in Bibbiano Child Foster Case

In the ongoing trial regarding the alleged inappropriate fostering of children in Bibbiano, pediatrician Elena Ferrari’s testimony became a focal point yesterday. Called to the stand by the defense of Federica Anghinolfi, the former head of social services, Dr. Ferrari delivered a powerful account of her experience working alongside the defendants.

A Commitment to Helping Vulnerable Children

Dr. Ferrari, a specialist in child abuse, explained that she was asked to join the provincial table on child abuse by the Local Health Authority. This experience, she said, proved invaluable, guiding her development as an advocate for vulnerable children.

She vividly recalled her July 2019 summons to the Prosecutor’s Office. “It was one of the worst days of my life,” she declared, “I cried in front of Prosecutor Valentina Salvi. I told her that I wanted to follow children with great suffering, but that day I seemed to understand that it was the end.”

Celebrating the Work of Colleagues

Throughout her testimony, Dr. Ferrari expressed unwavering praise for the defendants, highlighting their dedication and effectiveness. She recounted how psychologist Claudio Foti and psychologist Nadia Bolognini, a key figure in the case, provided exceptional care for a patient of hers suffering from severe psychosis.

“The Local Health Authority increased her psychotropic drugs, but she didn’t improve,” explained Dr. Ferrari, “But when Bolognini intervened, the minor flourished again in six months.”

She further lauded Bolognini, stating, “If the world had ten Bolognini, it would be better.” Dr. Ferrari generously offered her studio to Bolognini and even referred adults seeking help for abusetoward them. “The friendship of Foti and Bolognini is a source of pride for me,” she added.

A Shared Mission to Protect Children

Dr. Ferrari shared anecdotes of a dedicated team working tirelessly to protect vulnerable children. She recalled a trip to Turin aboard a mini-bus with members of the provincial group – including social worker Francesco Monopoli and medical examiner Maria Stella D’Andrea – to familiarize themselves with the Hansel & Gretel Center. “In Reggio, there were no adequate skills in treating minor victims of abuse, ” she said.

The La Cura center in Bibbia was their answer, a response sought by Dr. Ferrari and the team, aimed at providing exceptional care and protection to children in need.

Standing Up for the Accused

Reflecting on the events following precautionary measures taken in the case, Dr. Ferrari spoke passionately about her desire to defend her colleagues.

“I wanted to shout that those operators were very good,” she asserted. “We are trusted pediatricians: it is the last thing on our minds that a parent is abusive. It is difficult to make reports. I expressed and reiterate my appreciation for Anghinolfi, Monopoli, Bolognini, and the social workers: they worked with passion, determination, and without fear.”

Dr. Ferrari had met Anghinolfi at abuse prevention meetings. “She was considered a beacon, esteemed and a little envied because she had the courage to take reports of abuse seriously. And we could also get angry with the social workers who remained silent,” she said.

She continued, recounting a moment when Anghinolfi shared her experience of being received in Parliament. “She told us that Reggio could finally start doing something,” Dr. Ferrari recounted.

Dr. Ferrari concluded by acknowledging the evolving legal landscape for pediatricians: “Now, pediatricians have to make a report when faced with a suspicion.”

Fear and Frustration

The atmosphere surrounding the investigation proved challenging for the privatization of abuse prevention measures, creating fear and reluctance within the team. “After the investigation broke out, the provincial group no longer met. We were scared and feared we would end up in the meat grinder,” Dr. Ferrari revealed. “There was a harsh exchange of words with the prosecutor.

The pediatrician’s interactions with the prosecutor during the investigation phase involved what she characterized as a “violent” questioning technique.

“His way of asking me questions was violent,” Dr. Ferrari stated.

Lastly, Dr. Ferrari addressed allegations that she inquired about the Prosecutor’s sexual orientation, responding, “I don’t think so – I’m a supporter of LGBT rights. I was intercepted for a long time and I have many friends who are magistrates. Maybe it was reported to me.”

How does‌ Dr. Ferrari‍ describe ​the working relationship between the social workers and other professionals involved in the cases?

## Interview: Pediatrician Defends Social Workers in Bibbiano⁣ Foster Care Trial

**Host:** Welcome back ‍to the show. ​Today we’re discussing the ongoing trial in Bibbiano ‍regarding allegations of inappropriate child fostering. Joining us is ⁢Dr. Elena Ferrari, a pediatrician whose testimony has​ caused quite a stir in ⁤the courtroom. Dr. Ferrari, thank you for being here.

**Dr. Ferrari:** It’s my pleasure to be here.

**Host:** Your testimony painted a very different picture​ than the prosecution’s narrative. You⁣ spoke highly of the defendants, particularly social workers Federica Anghinolfi, Nadia Bolognini, and Claudio Foti, praising their dedication and effectiveness. Can‌ you elaborate on⁣ what‌ led‍ you to come to their defense?

**Dr. Ferrari:** Absolutely. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside these individuals for years. I’ve witnessed firsthand their unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children. They are incredibly skilled⁢ professionals who ⁣go above ‌and beyond to ensure the⁢ well-being of those in their care.

**Host:** You mentioned a ‌specific case involving a young patient suffering from psychosis. Could you​ share that experience?

**Dr. Ferrari:** This young⁣ patient was initially struggling despite increased medication. It was Nadia Bolognini who came in⁢ and used her ​expertise to‌ help the child thrive. Within ⁢six months, the child was flourishing⁤ again. ⁢It⁤ was⁣ truly‍ remarkable. ‌Nadia’s dedication and skills are ‌truly ⁢exceptional.

**Host:** Your testimony also highlighted a team effort, mentioning trips ‌to ‍Turin to learn best‌ practices for treating abused children and the establishment of the La Cura center ‌in Bibbiano. Could you‌ talk ⁢about the collaborative nature of the work you⁤ observed?

**Dr. Ferrari:** Absolutely. This isn’t about individuals working in isolation. It’s ​about ⁢a team of dedicated professionals ‌working together towards a shared ​goal –‍ protecting children. We learned from each other, we supported each other, and we were all driven by the same desire to help children in need.

**Host:** Dr. Ferrari, you spoke passionately about ‍defending your colleagues against accusations of wrongdoing. What motivated you to speak ​out?

**Dr. Ferrari:** As pediatricians, we are entrusted with the care‍ of children. We are constantly evaluating⁣ families and seeking the best interests of the child. To suggest​ that we would deliberately mischaracterize a situation and separate children from ⁤their parents is deeply hurtful ⁣and, frankly, ludicrous. I felt it‌ was crucial to stand up for these ‌individuals whose reputations have been unfairly tarnished.

**Host:** Dr. ⁣Ferrari, thank you for sharing your⁣ insights. This case is far from over, and it will be interesting to see how the court ultimately rules.