Lampard Inquiry hears more evidence on Essex mental health deaths

February 17, 2026 - 16:08

The ongoing public inquiry into the deaths of nearly 2,000 people under Essex mental health services has entered a profoundly emotional phase, hearing direct evidence from bereaved families. The Lampard Inquiry is examining fatalities across NHS and private care settings between 2000 and 2020.

This week, the hearings were dominated by powerful and often harrowing personal accounts from relatives who lost loved ones. Families described systemic failures, a lack of basic compassion, and feeling ignored by the very services meant to provide care and safety. Their testimonies painted a picture of a system where warnings were missed, communication broke down, and vulnerable individuals were repeatedly failed.

The inquiry, chaired by Baroness Kate Lampard, aims to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and recommend crucial changes to prevent future tragedies. The current sessions underscore the profound human cost behind the staggering statistics, giving a voice to those most affected. The evidence from families is considered central to understanding the full scale of the issues and ensuring accountability. The inquiry continues to gather evidence from staff, trust management, and other witnesses alongside these personal testimonies.