Public inquiry into North Yorkshire mental health trust after 'concerning' number of suicides
A public inquiry has been launched into North Yorkshire’s main mental health trust after a “concerning number of patient deaths by suicide” over the last decade.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the statutory inquiry into the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV) yesterday afternoon after meeting with families in Darlington, who have lost loved ones while they were under the care of the trust.
This included the relatives of Nadia Sharif and Christie Harnett, both aged 17, who died by suicide while being treated at West Lane Hospital in Middlesbrough.
Mr Streeting said: “I am deeply grateful to all the families who have taken the time to speak to me and share their harrowing experiences.
“What happened to their loved ones is unacceptable. Their courageous and tireless campaigning - not only on behalf of their families but for everyone in urgent need of mental health support - has been nothing short of inspirational.
“Everyone receiving mental health care should get safe, high-quality care and be treated with dignity and respect.
“The care their loved ones experienced fell well short of that mark, with tragic consequences.
"Following several meetings with these families this year and after careful consideration, I have decided that in the circumstances, a statutory inquiry is the best way to ensure they get the truth and accountability they deserve.”
The inquiry into the mental health trust, which covers York, North Yorkshire, County Durham, Darlington and Teesside, will focus specifically on uncovering failures that have led to patients losing their lives.
Families who led the campaign for an inquiry claimed their relatives received “chaotic and appalling” care.
Ms Harnett’s stepfather Michael Harnett told the BBC that he had repeatedly complained about the hospital in Middlesbrough but said it was “allowed to carry on”.
“It was horrendous, every patient seemed to be self-harming. There'd be patients walking around covered in blood,! he said.
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has long been calling for an inquiry into TEWV.
The Liberal Democrat told The Yorkshire Post yesterday: “Today’s announcement is a landmark moment, a huge victory for the families who have fought with extraordinary courage, determination and dignity for justice.
“Many of them have endured devastating loss, and their persistence is the reason the Government has finally taken this step.”
“I strongly welcome this full public inquiry, but it cannot be an excuse to delay action. People are still receiving care from this trust today.
“Immediate steps are needed to protect patients and begin rebuilding trust.
“I will continue to work alongside the families and constituents I have met whose lives have been so deeply affected. We must ensure that lessons are finally learned and that such tragic and systemic failures can never happen again.”
Alison Smith, chief executive of TEWV, said: “First and foremost, I extend my deepest sympathy to everyone affected by these tragic losses.
“With the public inquiry now confirmed, we will fully support the process with transparency, openness and humility.
“Above all, we are committed to listening, reflecting, and taking meaningful action to ensure that we continually improve as an organisation.”
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