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Richard Littler KC, representing Ratcliffe, had told the court the teenager had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and selective mutism.

Selective mutism can start at any age but most often begins in early childhood between the ages of two and four.

Experts regard selective mutism as a fear or phobia of talking to certain people, the cause is not always clear, but is associated with anxiety.

Scarlett was diagnosed with selective mutism at the age of eight, although her parents, Steve and Emma, believe she started showing signs as young as five.

"We are also developing resources aimed at parents and teaching staff to provide universal and targeted support for children with selective mutism."