SADLY there’s a feeling of deja vu about criticisms being levelled at public agencies following the death of a baby or toddler after repeated physical abuse.

The independent report into the appalling murder of 15-month-old Charlie Hunt by his mother’s boyfriend says professionals failed to recognise the potential for harm to the youngster.

The inquiry also highlighted a lack of information sharing between agencies in Lancashire and Bradford involved in the case but stopped short of saying the child’s death, and the repeated slapping, prodding and kicking that preceded it, could have been prevented.

There were ‘significant lessons to be learned’ and we are being assured that they will be.

But there have been several such reports in recent years all pinpointing a lack of collaboration between professionals.

It seems to continue despite the enormous strides in electronic communication which could make it relatively easy.

Social workers and others could have done a lot more although it has to be remembered that what the judge called “inexplicable cruelty” was carried out by a man with no previous convictions.

As over-stretched children services departments strive to improve there also has to be a real worry that swingeing cuts to come are likely to make things worse rather than better.