Report: Sutton Safeguarding Children Board – Ellie Butler Serious Case Review

The Sutton Safeguarding Children Board (SSCB) has published the serious case review report relating to the tragic death of Ellie Butler.

The 58 page report was commissioned by the SSCB and was independently authored by Marion Davis CBE, former President of the Association of Directors of Children’s Services. The report covers the period between January 2000 and October 2013.

Launching the Review, Christine Davies CBE, Independent Chair of the Sutton Safeguarding Children Board, said: “We are all deeply saddened by the death of Ellie Butler. The death of any child is always tragic but more so in these circumstances. Ellie was harmed by her parents, the very people who were supposed to protect her and keep her safe.

“The serious case review concluded that the Family Court’s decision to exonerate Ben Butler of harming Ellie in 2007, combined with its subsequent order for agencies to be sent a letter to that effect, had a very significant impact on how agencies could protect his children from that point in time onwards.

“Ben Butler’s exoneration and the Judge’s statement about him being a victim of a miscarriage of justice had the effect of handing all the power to the parents. This coupled with the assessment made by Services for Children to support Ellie and her sibling to be cared for by their parents were critical factors.

“It was not possible for the serious case review to gain greater insight into the decisions of the Family Court, as the Judiciary did not provide an independent management review of its involvement. Similarly, although Services for Children contributed to the serious case review, they were unable to produce an independent management review in line with statutory guidance.”

Click here to download the Ellie Butler – Serious Case Review

Picture (c) PA Wire.