20-1-2024 (LONDON) The NSPCC received a call expressing concerns about the welfare of two-year-old Bronson Battersby days before his heartbreaking demise, leading the children’s charity to alert social services. Bronson’s father, Kenneth Battersby, 60, is believed to have suffered a fatal heart attack shortly after both were last seen alive at their Skegness home on Boxing Day. This left the toddler unattended in the dark, deprived of food and water for days, resulting in his tragic death.
A neighbour, Amanda Tovey, 43, revealed that she contacted the NSPCC after hearing Bronson “crying all night” in the weeks leading up to his death. The NSPCC spokesperson confirmed receiving the call and making a referral to the relevant authorities.
Lincolnshire Police referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) over the incident, and the IOPC is now launching an independent investigation to assess the police response and identify any potential missed opportunities before the deaths occurred.
Social services had reportedly contacted Kenneth Battersby on December 27 to arrange a visit on January 2. Following no response, a social worker contacted the police, leading to an unannounced visit on January 4. The bodies were discovered five days later, on January 9.
Bronson’s half-sister, Melanie Battersby, does not blame social services or the police for her half-brother’s death. She believes they did their best within the limits of their authority. Melanie emphasized that an inquiry into potential failings or missed opportunities is essential and expressed sympathy for professionals dealing with such tragedies.
Heather Sandy, executive director for children’s services at Lincolnshire County Council, stated that a review of the case is underway, and the council awaits the results of the coroner’s investigations. The social worker involved has not been suspended but has taken time off due to the traumatic experience.
Despite the heart-wrenching circumstances, Melanie Battersby finds solace in the thought that Bronson and his father were together in their final moments, described as “looking very peaceful” when found. The family is devastated by the loss of the “beautiful, sweet-natured little boy,” and their focus now shifts to understanding the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
