Home / Health / Families Demand Answers After Teen Suicides at Trust
Families Demand Answers After Teen Suicides at Trust
21 Jan
Summary
- Public inquiry to investigate care failures leading to teen deaths.
- Three teenagers died by suicide while under trust care.
- Families campaign for radical change and answers.
A critical public inquiry will examine the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys Trust's care after major failings were identified. The announcement follows the deaths of three teenagers—Christie Harnett, Nadia Sharif, and Emily Moore—who all died by suicide within months of each other while under the trust's care. These young women were treated at West Lane Hospital in Middlesbrough.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the inquiry, aiming to uncover failures and address the significant number of patient suicides at the trust over the last ten years. Families of those affected are being invited to play a key role, with approximately 50 families and former patients meeting to discuss their priorities for the investigation. Many, like former patient Kate, describe witnessing and experiencing a 'chaotic and unsafe' environment that worsened their own health.
The families are determined to achieve permanent, radical change, hoping the inquiry will provide answers and prevent future tragedies. The Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys Trust has stated it will fully support the inquiry with transparency and humility, committing to listen, reflect, and take action to improve patient experiences.
