Heartbreaking and shocking: A toddler, Ethan Ives-Griffiths, was murdered by his grandparents, exposing a severe system failure. Ethan suffered devastating neglect and cruelty, leading to his tragic death at just two years old in August 2021. Found guilty of his murder, his maternal grandparents inflicted unimaginable harm, leaving Ethan severely underweight and injured.
Ethan’s aunt, Rebecca Shone, is campaigning for change. Her petition, which has already gathered over 34,000 signatures, urges for a new law to protect vulnerable children like Ethan. She stresses that Ethan didn’t just slip through the cracks but was let down by a social services system not equipped to respond behind closed doors. Rebecca’s powerful words call for more frequent checks and urgent welfare actions when access to a child is denied.
The current protocol failed Ethan—his name was on the child protection register, yet visits were missed due to flimsy Covid-related excuses. Rebecca demands that if entry is refused, visits should automatically prompt police involvement to ensure child safety. She wants social services held accountable for any lapses in procedure that could endanger children further.
Rebecca also advocates for more frequent checks on at-risk children, suggesting they need to happen every five to seven days, as opposed to the current ten-day interval. Her commitment aims to turn this devastating loss into a legacy of hope and protection. Her ultimate goal is for Ethan’s name to lead to lasting reforms that keep vulnerable children safe.
This petition is not just about seeking justice for Ethan, but about ensuring no other child goes through what he did. It’s a plea to make systemic changes that can save lives and offer protection to those who need it most. By supporting this petition, you are supporting a future where children receive the care and vigilance they rightly deserve.