Maria Neophytou, Acting Chief Executive of the NSPCC, has responded to the Sara Sharif verdict.
“Sara Sharif was repeatedly assaulted and tortured before being finally murdered by her father and step-mother in what was an absolutely shocking case of brutal and prolonged abuse. Her uncle was aware of the horrors she was being subjected to but did nothing to save her. Our thoughts go out to all those who loved and cared for Sara in a life that was marked by so much pain and suffering.
“What this little girl endured over several years raises crucial questions about what more could have been done to protect her and important issues regarding child safeguarding. It is vital that the Child Safeguarding Practice Review identifies any ways in which Sara could have been better protected, in an effort to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.
“This terrible case has also highlighted the ambiguity of the current legal position in England around the physical punishment of children. It is disturbing that Urfan Sharif believed – and told police - that he ‘did legally punish’ Sara for being naughty. Politicians at Westminster must move swiftly to abolish the defence of ‘reasonable chastisement’ and give children the same protection from assault as adults.
“Families, professionals, and individuals can also all work to protect children by reporting any concerns, no matter how small, to the local authorities, the police, or the NSPCC Helpline. If a child is in immediate danger, always call emergency services on 999.”
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