Report into Alfie Steele death 'devastating', says NSPCC
The children's charity has been reacting to the review on how the 9 year-old's safety was handled.
Last updated 29th Jan 2024
A leading chiildren's charity has been reacting to the review into how safety issues were handled in relation to the death of a young boy from Droitwich.
Alfie Steele was killed by his mother, Carla Scott and her partner, Dirk Howell, after prolonged abuse.
Alfie died in 2021 and they were jailed last year.
A report by Worcestershire's Children's Safeguarding Partnership found failings in the way Alfie was treated by agancies and authorities within the partnership.
A spokesperson for the NSPCC, said: “It is devastating to be discussing yet another case review about the deliberate death of a child. Young Alfie died due to abuse at the hands of his mother and her partner during the Covid pandemic.”
“It’s also an important opportunity to reflect on the learnings and help professionals to do everything possible to put the safety of the child at the heart of all plans. Cases like this are complex and we must not forget that much of the abuse was kept hidden from professionals, with Alfie’s mother and her partner going to great lengths to conceal their abuse, including coaching Alfie himself not to speak out.
“It is a stark reminder not to be over reliant on children telling us what is happening to them and there is the need for professionals to robustly challenge and proactively follow through enquiries, such as medical examinations, when there are inconsistencies and concerns about a child’s demeanour and physical abuse.
“One thing to take away from this tragic case is the strength of Alfie’s community, who reported their concerns, despite receiving threats. At the NSPCC we have our Helpline, and want any adult concerned about a child being at risk to contact us for support and advice.”