Inquiry investigates deaths of 1,500 NHS mental health patients in Essex

People died in unexpected, unexplained or self-inflicted' circumstances from 2000 to 2020

The first inquiry of its kind held in England is investigating the deaths of 1,500 people who died while being cared for as patients of NHS mental health services in Essex.

They died in circumstances that were unexpected, unexplained or self-inflicted" between 2000 and 2020 and while they were receiving treatment from NHS mental health trusts that for years had faced persistent complaints of providing poor care.

Serious concerns about patients' physical, mental and sexual safety while on a ward, including claims of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Big differences in the quality of care patients received, both in staff attitudes and in the use of effective treatments".

Patients and their families being given too little information about their treatment, likely length of stay and chances of recovery.