Our Response to the Lampard Inquiry
The Lampard Inquiry, set to begin today, is the first public inquiry of its kind looking into the deaths of up to 2,000 mental health inpatients, under the care of the NHS in Essex between 2000 and 2023.
Kathy Roberts, Chief Executive of the Association of Mental Health Providers, said:
“It is devastating that so many lives have been lost under the mental health care of Essex NHS Trusts, and we welcome the Lampard Inquiry as a crucial and timely step in addressing the serious and systemic failings that have impacted NHS mental health services.
Although Essex may be the focal point of the inquiry, it is important to look at the broader challenges facing mental health services across the UK and consider how these are impacting patient safety and care standards.
People with poor mental health and illness are already vulnerable and in need of care and support that is safe, timely, and effective. Whilst addressing the concerns and challenges in NHS mental health services, it is equally vital to recognise the wider mental health system and the pivotal role of mental health charities (VCSE sector) providing services as being integral to this.
As the only national organisation representing mental health charities providing services, we know Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise sector mental health services are essential in providing mental health care and support and play a key role in the prevention of mental illness, early intervention, as well as post-discharge, supporting 8 million people in our population.
The sector has a key role in offering solutions to the long-standing and systemic challenges facing mental health care and support, but it also requires sustainable funding, resources, and support for its workforce to address these.
The Association is committed to working with our members to ensure person-centred and safe care and support are provided to people with poor mental health and illness based on the principles of choice and control. We hope the Inquiry leads to a transformation in the treatment offered, and our thoughts continue to be with the families and people who have been impacted by these tragic deaths.
The Association calls for a transformation in the treatment of people experiencing mental ill health in hospitals and to ensure that, when possible, timely and appropriate support services are provided in the community.”