Following the publication of the damning Mazars Report into Southern Health's failiure to properly investigate the deaths of patients who were mentally ill or had learning difficulties, I am calling for answers and actions from the leadership. i have invited Katrina Percy, CEO and other Directors to meet Hampshire MPs in the New Year so that further questions cans be asked.
This is a very serious report, and identifies serious failures of leadership and governance at Southern Health. Whilst the detailed findings will need to be properly scrutinised and digested, what is clear is that big changes are needed in how the Trust manages the investigation of deaths in its care.
I have a constituent who has raised concerns with me about the death of a family member who was under Southern’s care, and I know other colleagues have similar stories. We have to remember that every one of these deaths is a tragedy for those concerned, and they need reassurance that proper procedures have been followed.
The Secretary of State’s announcement today of a focussed investigation by the Care Quality Commission into the Trust’s handling of unexpected deaths is a welcome step. I hope it will be able to look at some of the remaining unanswered questions, such as how many deaths were not investigated that should have been. We need that review to be conducted thoroughly and swiftly, so that we can be reassured that the changes that need to be made are being implemented.
I have asked the leadership of Southern Health to come to Parliament early in the New Year to face questions from Hampshire MPs, and we will be looking to them for reassurance that they are treating these findings with the gravity they deserve.
The Health Secretary has made a written statement in the House of Commons on the report, announcing the action he is taking in the light of the findings: http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-statement/Lords/2015-12-17/HLWS425/
If you or your family members have been affected by the findings in the Report, are a Fareham constituent and would like assistance, please get in touch with me.
