North Yorkshire MPs welcome inquiry into mental health trust
Rachael Maskell and Tom Gordon welcome inquiry
The much-anticipated public inquiry into the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV) is set to commence on 21st September 2026 following the Government's appointment of His Honour Judge Roderick John Conwy Potter as Chair.
York Central MP Rachael Maskell responded positively to the announcement, saying: "Families who have suffered loss and unimaginable grief have waited in limbo for years to have their voices heard. This has been a complete systemic failure and should never be allowed to happen again."
"The announcement of this date is a huge step forwards in giving families who have lost loved ones and individuals who have suffered poor care the opportunity to hold those responsible to account and drive urgent improvements in mental health services."
Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, also welcomed the inquiry's progression, stating: "This is welcome news, and it is long overdue. Families who lost loved ones, and patients who were badly let down by TEWV, have waited far too long for this inquiry to get going."
"It's right that Judge Potter has promised to put the voices of patients, survivors and families at the heart of this work. They must shape the terms of reference, and they must be listened to at every stage."
Alison Smith, Chief Executive of TEWV NHS Foundation Trust, expressed her support for the inquiry, stating: "We welcome the appointment of the Inquiry Chair as an important step forward. Above all, we acknowledge the significance of this moment for the families and loved ones involved, and we continue to hold them in our thoughts."
"We will co-operate fully with the public inquiry with honesty, openness and humility. We are truly sorry for the times when care fell short, and are committed to listening, learning and continuing to improve."