The really really sad thing about all this is that this is the tip of the iceberg.
As a teacher I have come across lots and lots of very similar families where the children are clearly being neglected or brought up in homes full of inappropriate behaviours/people. I am ashamed to say that even my own Aunt is guilty of such appalling attitudes. She has 7 children by 6 different men. Her current partner is the 17 year old friend of her son (she is 40 now). She has never worked but uses her benefit money for cigarettes and drink. The kids are dirty, hungry and unruly and they are privy to scenes that no child should ever see or hear. (Social services are involved, but they are overworked and ineffective). My heart bleeds for all the children who have to live every day in these horrible situations.
My only hope is that Shannon and her brothers and sisters will get the care and attention they deserve. Poor things!