The inquiry will focus on a number of patient deaths by suicide at the trust over the past 10 years.

Streeting said: ‘I am deeply grateful to all the families who have taken the time to speak to me and share their harrowing experiences. What happened to their loved ones is unacceptable. Their courageous and tireless campaigning - not only on behalf of their families but for everyone in urgent need of mental health support - has been nothing short of inspirational.

‘Everyone receiving mental health care should get safe, high-quality care and be treated with dignity and respect. The care their loved ones experienced fell well short of that mark, with tragic consequences.

‘Following several meetings with these families this year and after careful consideration, I have decided that in the circumstances, a statutory inquiry is the best way to ensure they get the truth and accountability they deserve.'

The inquiry will focus on uncovering failures in care that have led to patients losing their lives and will be considered separately to other ongoing inquiries into mental health services, such as the Lampard Inquiry. It will aim to identify issues specific to the trust and make actionable recommendations to reduce the risk of similar tragic events occurring in the future. 

Details of the chair and terms of reference of the inquiry will be announced as soon as possible.

Alison Smith, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust chief executive, said: ‘First and foremost, I extend my deepest sympathy to everyone affected by these tragic losses.

‘With the public inquiry now confirmed, we will fully support the process with transparency, openness and humility. Above all, we are committed to listening, reflecting, and taking meaningful action to ensure that we continually improve as an organisation.'