Sara Sharif died alone. We need to strengthen our communities

Seven-year-old Khyra Ishaq had been starved and subjected to cruelty.

She weighed just 16.8kg at her death, with 60 separate injuries as a result of punishment beatings.

Neighbours told me they thought it was a bit odd’ that they hadn’t seen her for a few months .

But they didn't think too much of it and didn't want to pry.

The case has never really left me, and I have been reminded of it while reading details that have emerged in court about the death of Sara Sharif in 2023 .

Sara ’s case prompts the question of whether we are active citizens, stepping in when something doesn’t seem right, or passive.

The mark of a civilised society is surely how it cares for its most vulnerable.

If we don't report our fears, a child could die, we might be accused of interfering.

We all have a part to play, says Josh MacAlister , an independent review of social care.