In February 2021, nine-year-old Alfie Steele tragically died at his home in Droitwich, Worcestershire, after enduring prolonged abuse from his mother, Carla Scott, and her partner, Dirk Howell. Alfie suffered more than 50 injuries, with evidence indicating his head was repeatedly held under water as a form of punishment. Despite over 60 reports to social services and police between 2018 and 2020 expressing concerns for Alfie's welfare, opportunities to intervene were missed. In June 2023, Scott was sentenced to 27 years for manslaughter, while Howell received a life sentence with a minimum term of 32 years for murder.

A Child Safeguarding Practice Review highlighted several critical oversights:

• Lack of Direct Communication with Alfie: Professionals often assessed Alfie's safety without speaking directly to him, missing vital signs of abuse.

• Inadequate Response to Reports: Numerous alerts from family members and neighbours about Howell's aggressive behaviour and criminal history were not thoroughly investigated.

• Insufficient Medical Examinations: Visible injuries on Alfie were not consistently followed up with medical assessments.

This case underscores the paramount importance of vigilance among all individuals working with children. To prevent similar tragedies:

• Maintain Professional Curiosity: Always seek to understand the child's perspective and environment.

• Act on Concerns: Report and escalate any signs of abuse or neglect promptly.

• Collaborate with Agencies: Work closely with social services, law enforcement, and healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive support for the child.

By fostering open communication and taking decisive action, those working with children in day nurseries, preschools, schools and as childminders can play a crucial role in safeguarding children's well-being.

AUTHOR:- Iona has nearly 10 years of experience supporting nurseries and childminders in curriculum planning, leadership, and safeguarding. Her writing is informed by public information and sector insight, aiming to provide accessible, practical support for professionals working with children. She is part of the On the Button team, helping deliver Well-being, Safeguarding and Complaint Management Software that empowers practitioners to identify concerns early and act confidently.

On the Button provides innovative software tailored to the needs of the early years sector, with a strong focus on EYFS well-being and early years safeguarding. Our tools help senior practitioners to confidently track concerns, maintain robust records, and respond effectively — all while meeting statutory guidance. From early years complaint management to team-wide safeguarding alerts, our platform puts children's safety and emotional health first.