The Department of Health and Social Care published important developments regarding the Essex Mental Health Inquiry. This inquiry, chaired by Baroness Lampard CBE, focuses on the tragic incidents involving the deaths of mental health inpatients in Essex NHS facilities between 2000 and 2023.
Scope and Purpose of the Inquiry: The inquiry aims to thoroughly investigate the circumstances leading to these unfortunate deaths and identify necessary reforms to prevent future incidents. The terms of reference, recently published, guide the inquiry’s work, building upon previous investigations to ensure comprehensive oversight and accountability.
Key Areas of Investigation:
- Failings in delivering safe and therapeutic inpatient treatment
- Staff actions, practices, and behaviors impacting patient care
- Organizational culture and governance influencing treatment quality
- Effectiveness of incident investigations and trust responses
- Interactions between the trusts and other public entities like the Care Quality Commission
Health and Social Care Secretary, Victoria Atkins, emphasizes the government's commitment to learning from these incidents and enhancing patient safety. The inquiry will continue to engage with affected families, providing them with the answers they need and ensuring such tragedies are not repeated.
"Patients should feel confident, safe and supported - especially when receiving help for their mental health, which can be an incredibly vulnerable experience."
Upcoming conference on Investigation of Deaths and Serious Incidents in Mental Health Settings
Explore the practicalities of Patient Safety Incident Investigation and Learning from Deaths in Mental Health Services and implementation of the Patient Safety Incident Response Framework. Join us at the forthcoming Implementing the Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF) in Mental Health Settings - Investigation of Deaths & Serious Incidents conference which offers an opportunity to learn from best practices and network with peers.
Date: 19th June 2024
Location: Virtual Conference
Find more details about the conference and register to attend via: www.healthcareconferencesuk.co.uk/virtual-online-courses/investigation-of-deaths-serious-incidents-in-mental-health-services
