Lucy Letby inquiry finds some babies could have been saved as judge describes ‘complete failure’ in safeguarding – latest updates
The Thirlwall inquiry has concluded that three babies might have survived if the hospital had acted sooner on concerns raised about Lucy Letby. Lady Justice Thirlwall stated that senior nurses initially dismissed a consultant's worries, and senior managers significantly delayed contacting the police.

Briefing Summary
AI-generatedThe Thirlwall inquiry has concluded that three babies might have survived if the hospital had acted sooner on concerns raised about Lucy Letby. Lady Justice Thirlwall stated that senior nurses initially dismissed a consultant's worries, and senior managers significantly delayed contacting the police. The police were not informed until May 2017, nearly a year after the death of baby P, even though Letby had already been moved from the neonatal unit. The inquiry found a complete failure at all levels to implement safeguarding procedures. While investigating clinical explanations for infant deaths was appropriate, the article states that safeguarding steps should have been taken once there was suspicion of deliberate harm by Letby.
Article analysis
Model · rule-basedKey claims
5 extractedOnce there was suspicion that Letby may be causing harm deliberately, safeguarding steps should have been taken.
There was a complete failure at all levels to invoke safeguarding procedures.
There was a prolonged delay by senior managers in calling the police.
Senior nurses refused to accept a consultant’s concerns could be justified.
Three babies may have survived if the hospital had acted over concerns raised about Lucy Letby.