Letby inquiry: NHS staff want their voices heard

A group representing hundreds of clinicians has applied to contribute to the inquiry set up after the Lucy Letby killings.

"The evidence of this group relating to how whistleblowers are treated, not just at one trust but across the UK, is of huge significance," Rachel di Clemente, of Hudgell Solicitors, acting for the clinicians, said.

"NHS staff who have bravely spoken up about patient-safety concerns or unethical practices deserve to have their voices heard," Dr Matt Kneale, who co-chairs Doctors' Association UK, which is part of the group, said.

Several doctors at the Countess of Chester Hospital told BBC News senior management at the trust had failed to investigate allegations against Letby for months and tried to silence their concerns.

At one point, the doctors were ordered to write an apology to Letby, now 34, and told to stop making allegations against her.

Representatives for the inquiry said they could not comment on applications to participate but confirmed it would consider NHS culture and the effectiveness of management and governance structures.