‘Worrying’ New Report Into Deaths Is Published

Legal experts at Irwin Mitchell have welcomed calls for a national review to be undertaken into failings at a health trust following the death of two men.

The Parliamentary Health Service Ombudsman made the call following the release of a critical new report into two cases where young men died shortly after they were admitted to the Linden Centre in Chelmsford, Essex.

The report highlighted a systemic failure by the former North Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (NEP) to tackle repeated issues over an “unacceptable” period of time, as well as inadequacies in its investigations into the deaths.

The ombudsman investigation into the death of Matthew Leahy in November 2012 found issues including no care plan being in place, inadequate observations and a lack of an allocated keyworker. This was in contrast to the first investigation into this death, which claimed his care and treatment were good.

Irwin Mitchell’s medical negligence lawyers specialise in providing support to patients who have suffered as a result of care failings. The team has acted for families whose loved ones have previously been admitted to the former Trust’s mental health centres.

Expert Opinion

“This new report makes for incredibly worrying reading, as it identifies a host of issues related to the work of the Linden Centre and the NEP in general.

“Families place great faith in mental health services and hope that their loved ones will always access the care and support that they need. Sadly, it appears in these instances there are real concerns about the care provided.

“It is a huge concern to see that these issues are continuing to happen and this has to change quickly. Lessons have to be learned from the problems of the past and everything possible must be done to ensure patients can access a high standard of care.” Rachel Codd - Solicitor

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