Lucy Letby inquiry finds some babies could have been saved as judge describes ‘complete failure’ in safeguarding – latest updates

Long-awaited Thirlwall inquiry finds three babies may have survived if hospital had acted over concerns raised

• Three babies may have survived if hospital had acted over Lucy Letby concerns, inquiry finds

Lady Justice Thirlwall said that senior nurses at the hospital refused to accept the consultant's concerns could be justified, and criticised the prolonged delay by senior managers in calling the police".

The police were eventually contacted in May 2017, around a year from the death of baby P in June 2016, and despite the fact Letby had been removed from neonatal unit.

There was also complete failure at all levels to invoke safeguarding procedures at any point.

Looking for clinical or other explanations for deaths and collapses was not wrong, but once there was suspicion that Letby may be causing harm deliberately safeguarding steps should have been taken.