A safeguarding review has suggested that medical professionals missed crucial signs in the case of Damion Russell, a toddler who died from a brain injury. The review, conducted by the Blackpool Safeguarding Children Partnership, found that while medics observed a bruise on Damion's head, they did not inquire about its cause with his father, a failure described as not meeting "expected practice."
This oversight occurred at the same hospital where Preston Davey, another infant who died from a brain injury, was treated. In Preston's case, a review revealed that the child was found to be "covered in injuries, top to toe and front to back," including an adult bite mark. His father, Daniel Hardcastle, who had recently been granted sole custody of Preston, was later jailed for life with a minimum term of 22 years for murder. Hardcastle had initially attempted to explain away bruising by showing medics a video on his phone, but it was later determined the video was recorded 12 days prior and could not account for fresh injuries.
In the case of Damion Russell, the review highlighted that medical staff's failure to question the bruise was a significant lapse. Damion's mother, Verity Smith, has reportedly called for the review into her son's death to include details of Preston's case. Smith's partner, John McGowan-Fazakerley, was convicted of allowing Damion's death and sexual offenses and sentenced to 25 years imprisonment. Verity Smith herself was convicted of murder and other charges, including rape, and received a whole-life prison term.
The findings of Damion's safeguarding review raise concerns about the effectiveness of child protection protocols within the healthcare system, particularly when multiple cases with similar investigative lapses emerge. The report underscores the critical need for thorough questioning and immediate escalation when signs of potential abuse are identified in children.