The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has not investigated individual patient deaths, as this does not fall within its remit.
By Rachel Lucas, news producer
Legal proceedings have started against a former NHS mental health trust accused of safety failings following the deaths of a number of patients.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has brought the action against Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.
But the proceedings relate to the former North Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, which merged with South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust in 2017, to form the new body.
The legal action relates to alleged failings between 2004 and 2015 and follow an investigation into risks from “potential ligature points” in inpatient wards.
Several patients died in the trust’s inpatient services over the 11-year period.
However, the HSE has not investigated individual patient deaths, as this does not fall within its remit.
Melanie Leahy’s son Matthew, 20, died at a unit run by the trust in 2012. An inquest into his death found there had been “multiple failings” in his care.
She welcomed the action brought by the HSE, calling it “extremely important”.
“We hope this is the start to getting the accountability our loved ones deserve,” she added.
Sally Morris, chief executive of Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “As legal proceedings have started, we are restricted in the comments we can make, but I would like to take this opportunity to say our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families whose loved ones were part of this investigation.
“Safety is our absolute priority and we are continually working to ensure the safest environment possible for our patients.”
The first hearing for the case will take place 18th January 2020.
