NPCC response to National child safeguarding practice review into murders of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes and Star Hobson.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Child Protection, Deputy Chief Constable Ian Critchley, said:

"Protecting children from all forms of cruelty and neglect is our collective ambition. This report acknowledges and recognises the professional and dedicated work being carried out by colleagues and partners every single day up and down the country to protect children. However, the tragic loss of Arthur and Star is a painful reminder that there is more for us still to do.

“I welcome the national panel report and recognise the important role it plays in identifying key areas of work that will help police and partners to continuously work more effectively together to protect children.

“There are several strands to the report, and we will now work with our partners and stakeholders to consider and act on the recommendations.

"Tackling child cruelty is a multi-agency endeavour with complex challenges in each part of the response. We already work closely with frontline partners in social services, education, health and other locally based partners and charities to tackle abuse, and recognise the importance of ensuring that the right information is effectively shared across agencies in all areas of the UK to safeguard children.

"We encourage anyone who believes a child is being abused to report their concerns however small they may seem. It is the responsibility of us all to ensure children are protected from abuse and can thrive in today’s world, not suffer the most appalling harm as that inflicted on Star and Arthur, who our thoughts are very much with today.”