Public Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) Report Statement

Sally Morris, Chief Executive of Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) said:

“Our deepest sympathies are with these two families whose beloved sons died under the care of the former North Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (NEP).

“The Ombudsman reports that, in both these cases, the care by the former NEP fell well below acceptable standards, let alone the high quality of care the NHS strives always to provide, and this has caused deep distress to their bereaved families. Our hearts go out to them. It is also evident from the report that the former Trust’s investigation into Matthew Leahy’s death was inadequate. We are very sorry indeed for the additional pain and distress this has caused Mr and Mrs Leahy.

“Since 2017, when EPUT took over from the former NEP, we have co-operated fully with the Ombudsman’s investigations and with the police investigation. We are continuing to co-operate fully with the Health and Safety Executive’s ongoing investigation. We will carry out the Ombudsman’s recommendations and will support NHS Improvement’s forthcoming review into the former NEP in every way possible.