Public Inquiry into Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust: Supporting those seeking to engage

The public inquiry into Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV) is now moving forward following its announcement.  This will mark an important phase in the independent examination of concerns about patient care across its services.

As the inquiry progresses, the focus will shift to participation and assist, and invite engagement with the process.

I am currently advising individuals who received care within TEWV hospitals and who are considering or have chosen to participate in the Inquiry.  My role is to ensure that their experiences are presented clearly, accurately, and with the seriousness they deserve.

Why participation and engagement matter

Public inquiries of this nature are designed to examine whether systemic issues contributed to harm.  The Inquiry will have statutory powers to compel witnesses and will demand disclosure of documents.  It will provide a forum capable of exploring the issues with the depth and vigour it requires.

The areas that are likely to be examined are:-

• Patient safety within inpatient mental health settings
• Clinical decision making and risk management
• Leadership and governance
• Communication with families following serious incidents
• Whether learning and recommendations from reports have been properly implemented
• The lived experiences of former patients are essential to understanding how the policies worked in practice and give the realities from those who lived through it.

Engaging with the inquiry

Individuals affected by care within TEWV services may be able to:-

• Apply for Core participant status
• Provide detailed witness evidence
• Review disclosed materials to assist the inquiry
• Attend hearings

Participation can be an opportunity to contribute to accountability and reform.  However, it can be challenging, particularly where experiences involve traumatic experiences or loss.

Supportive and independent legal advice can ensure that those engaging with the inquiry are properly supported and that their evidence is presented effectively.

My approach

My practice focuses on representing individuals affected by failures.  In relation to the TEWV inquiry, I am advising on eligibility and procedural next steps.

Once the inquiry is fully set up, I will:-

• Prepare detailed and sensitive witness statements
• Liaise with the inquiry legal team
• Support clients through what can be a difficult process

Next steps

Public inquiries can play a crucial role in driving change, but their effectiveness depends on the quality of the evidence put before them.

If you have received care within the TEWV services and believe your experience may be relevant to the issues under examination, seeking advice can help you understand your options for participation.