I don't know about over there, but in most jurisdictions here in the US, willful neglect of a child is a criminal offense, comparable to reckless endangerment. In the State of New York (the Penal Code I know best), it's a class D felony, carrying a usual sentence of three to five years, and, as a felon, loss of voting privileges (for life) and loss of the right to run for public office. Many employers will not hire former felons, either, especially for sensitive jobs.