His Honour Judge John Potter has been appointed chair of the public inquiry into serious failings in mental health care at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV).

The inquiry beginning today, which was announced in December 2025, will focus on a number of patient deaths by suicide over the past 10 years, begins today.

Secretary of state for health and social care Yvette Cooper said: ‘The families who were let down by the Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust have suffered immeasurable pain.

‘Judge Potter has been asked to deliver a comprehensive report into why and how things went so wrong across the trust's mental health services, and what changes must be made.'

Judge Potter said: ‘I am honoured to have been appointed to chair the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys Inquiry. I am conscious of the responsibility that comes with this role and of the experiences of the patients, families and others affected by the matters the inquiry will examine.

‘My first priority will be to meet and listen to those affected. Their voices and experiences will be central to the inquiry's work and will help inform the development of its terms of reference.

‘The inquiry will approach its task independently, thoroughly and fairly, and with respect for everyone who takes part. I will work with the inquiry team to put the necessary arrangements in place so that our work can begin as promptly as proper preparation allows.'