A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Skegness, Lincolnshire, where a two-year-old boy named Bronson Battersby was discovered starved to death next to his father, Kenneth Battersby, aged 60. The tragedy occurred in their basement flat, and the story took an even darker turn when it was revealed that burglars had broken into the flat after the father's passing.

Bronson and his father were found lifeless on January 9, two weeks after they were last seen. Neighbours believe that Kenneth Battersby may have suffered a heart attack. The heart-wrenching revelation came to light when a break-in occurred between January 10 and 12. The burglars took not only valuables but also Mr. Battersby's painkillers, leaving the community in shock.

Maria Clifton-Plaice, Mr. Battersby's landlady, expressed her dismay at the situation. She reported missing items, including Mr. Battersby's wallet containing rent money and his tramadol medication. The incident left her questioning how low people can stoop, adding a layer of despair to the already tragic circumstances.

Despite the heartbreaking nature of the events, Melanie Battersby, Bronson's sister, expressed understanding and empathy toward social services and the police. She stated that they did what they could within their powers and the information available. The Lincolnshire county council revealed that a social worker had attempted a scheduled visit on January 2 but, receiving no response, collaborated with the police and returned on January 9. Ms. Clifton-Plaice was then alerted, leading to the discovery.

Both the council and the police have launched investigations into the deaths. The national Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel will assess the situation within 15 days, and Lincolnshire Police has referred itself to an independent watchdog. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) will examine the police response to any prior welfare concerns raised, exploring potential missed opportunities to check on Mr. Battersby and Bronson earlier.

The Skegness tragedy highlights the devastating consequences of unforeseen circumstances and the vulnerabilities that some families face. As investigations unfold, the community awaits answers and hopes that lessons will be learned to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future. The loss of young Bronson serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, support, and proactive intervention in vulnerable situations.

DETAILS OF THE SERIOUS CASE REVIEWS FINDINGS - https://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/news/local-news/bronson-battersby-in-depth-review-9111910

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.