Arthur Labinjo-Hughes
Case Study: Arthur Labinjo-Hughes
In this case study, we are not trying to attack or target any person or organisation involved, we are instead explaining the severity of the situation and how we, as a service, would have done things differently. Yes, in hindsight it feels obvious, but as an organisation we are shocked and our heart bleeds knowing this child was unprotected for so long, and we want others to learn from this moment so it never happens again.
(source: Reach)
In June 2021, tragedy struck the heart of those in Solihull. A six-year-old boy died after he was found with fatal head injuries within his home. After a rather long distressing investigation, the lead barrister addressed the court and explained that Arthur, the child affected, had “repeatedly expressed fears for his safety from the age of five”, yet nothing was done to protect him. An article by CoventryLive, states that Mary Prior, a local barrister assigned to the case, said “He was describing his fears for well over a year and nobody listened to Arthur”.
What would PAS Support do?
It's hard not to get angry at this case because trained professionals failed to do the minimum to keep Arthur safe. If our service was involved, a report would've been made the second Arthur displayed any safeguarding concerns, whether this is from noticing any unusual marks, Arthur himself disclosing any information, or even a slight mention of safety to teachers. Arthur often expressed his fears of safety, and it's disgraceful this wasn't taken seriously. No matter how unsure you are, if a child expressed concerns about their wellbeing, it should be reported to the police for an investigation to take place.