The NHS Alliance response to the Thirlwall inquiry

Responding to the Thirlwall inquiry report, the chief executive of the NHS Alliance, Sir Ciarán Devane, said:

"This inquiry is a powerful reminder of the appalling suffering of the families of babies who died as a result of Lucy Letby’s crimes, and the wider failures to recognise and act decisively on the warnings.

"Lady Justice Thirlwall has underlined the urgency of delivering a prompt and effective response to help ensure this tragedy can never be repeated.

"Health leaders across the NHS will share in the widespread sense of dismay and deep sorrow over the events that unfolded at the Countess of Chester hospital, and the determination to improve safety and accountability in the NHS.

"They will recognise the inquiry’s strong words on the upheaval caused by successive reorganisations, the complex regulatory landscape, staff shortages, unacceptable “revolving door” appointments and the inadequacies of under-funded NHS IT systems.

"They will welcome the call to strengthen managerial accountability, while also implementing better training and support for managers.

"We look forward to working with the government as it aims to develop a regulatory system for managers that is effective, equitable and fair, and that is fit for purpose for its intended aims."