Lady Justice Thirlwall's report from the inquiry into events at the Countess of Chester Hospital, connected to nurse Lucy Letby's convictions, is published today, Tuesday 15 September 2026. The inquiry held both public and private hearings.
The independent public inquiry, established on 4 September 2023, focused on the circumstances surrounding Letby's convictions for the murder and attempted murder of babies. Letby was sentenced to life imprisonment on 21 August 2023, following convictions for seven counts of murder and six counts of attempted murder, with a seventh attempted murder conviction added at a retrial.
The inquiry's objectives included providing answers for victims' families and ensuring lessons are learned. It also examined the broader context, including the response and conduct of the NHS, its staff, and regulators. The inquiry investigated parental experiences, hospital conduct and governance from 4 January 2012, and the effectiveness of wider NHS management structures and regulation in protecting babies.
The report will not express a view on Letby's guilt or convictions, as the inquiry proceeded on the basis that she was guilty of the offences for which she was convicted. All of Letby's appeals against her convictions have been dismissed.
The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) is currently investigating Letby's case to determine if there is a "real possibility" her convictions might not be upheld. The chair of the CCRC has stated that the watchdog will examine the conclusions of the Thirlwall inquiry to assess any bearing on their review.