NSPCC statement on Old Bailey verdict on rape of 2 year-old girl

Andrew Flanagan, Chief Executive of the NSPCC said:

"The brutal death of Baby Peter and the rape of a two-year-old girl are among the most heinous crimes against small children we have ever seen. They leave all decent people bewildered and revolted.

"Thankfully, those responsible have been convicted. Hopefully they will receive severe prison sentences which will keep them away from children for a very long time."

"The violence, neglect and sexual brutality inflicted on these babies cuts deep into all our hearts - what happened to them is the stuff of nightmares. But tragically it is not unique."

A child under five is killed by a parent or carer at least once every ten days.1 The police hear of a sexual crime against a baby or toddler more than three times a day. There were 1339 sex crimes against children under five reported to police forces in England and Wales in 2007-08.2

The NSPCC is calling on the UK Government to collect and publish annual data from police forces showing the number and ages of sex abuse victims and to link this with the number of convictions, and other penalties, resulting from the recorded offences. This data should form the basis of a better national strategy to prevent abuse and develop local services for sexually abused children.

Andrew Flanagan continued: "It is all too common for babies and toddlers to be abused behind closed doors and out of sight. While it is difficult or impossible for very young children to speak out, neighbours, relatives and family friends can often be the eyes and ears which protect a child. Sadly, our helpline hears heartrending stories of child cruelty every day of the week.

"The NSPCC's Helpline - 0808 800 5000 - is there 24 hours a day if anyone has concerns about a child. Call us. Don't wait because you are not sure. Any delay can cost a child's life." 

Over the next three years the NSPCC plans to grow the Helpline and the ChildLine service - the UK's free, 24-hour helpline for children in danger or distress so that it can protect more children, through the Child's Voice Appeal.

If you have any concerns about a child's welfare you can ring the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk

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