Report highlights failures in risk management and calls for urgent reform
The Youth Justice Board for England and Wales has called for urgent systemic reform following the publication of the Southport Inquiry report, which examined the circumstances leading to the deaths of three young girls.
Responding to the findings, the board’s chief executive, Stephanie Roberts-Bibby, said the report highlights significant failures across multiple agencies responsible for safeguarding and risk management.
The inquiry found that a child with a known history of concerning behaviour was able to reach a point of extreme violence despite repeated contact with public services. According to the report, shortcomings in information sharing, risk identification and accountability contributed to the failure to prevent harm.
Roberts-Bibby stated that the findings demonstrate a wider systemic issue rather than the failure of a single organisation. She noted that agencies involved in safeguarding did not effectively coordinate their efforts or take collective responsibility for managing risk.
The report identified gaps in how concerns were escalated and addressed over time, describing instances where intervention was limited or insufficient. It concluded that a more integrated approach across services, including education, health, social care and policing, is required to improve outcomes.
The Youth Justice Board emphasised that engagement with the youth justice system often occurs later in a child’s trajectory. It highlighted the need for earlier intervention and stronger collaboration between agencies before risks escalate.
The inquiry also recommends consideration of a lead agency model to improve accountability for risk management. The board expressed support for clearer ownership of risk, alongside strengthened professional responsibility across services.
Phil Bowen, interim chair of the board, said the report requires a coordinated response across government departments. He highlighted the importance of improving information sharing and ensuring that professionals working with children are equipped to identify and respond to risks effectively.
The Youth Justice Board stated that it will continue to support the development of evidence-based approaches to youth justice and safeguarding. It also indicated that the findings should be used to inform future policy and operational changes aimed at reducing harm.
The Southport Inquiry report concludes that while risks cannot be entirely eliminated, improvements in coordination, accountability and early intervention could reduce the likelihood of similar incidents in the future.