The seven-week trial revealed that Preston suffered 40 traumatic injuries during the months he was in the defendants’ care. Medical evidence also contradicted the initial explanation given about the circumstances surrounding his final medical emergency.

Now that the criminal proceedings have reached their sentencing stage, attention is increasingly turning toward the wider safeguarding questions surrounding Preston’s care — including how concerns were ᴀssessed before he was placed with the couple and whether warning signs could have been identified earlier.

An independent review involving Oldham Council has also been reported following concerns raised about the safeguarding process.

⚖️ The convictions have established criminal accountability. The remaining questions are about what systems can learn from Preston’s case and how vulnerable children can be better protected in the future.

👉 Source: Lancashire Police — Preston Davey case and sentencing