There will be some pre-recorded evidence sessions from bereaved families and others in April, followed by sessions in July and October looking at topics including assessments, admissions, sexual safety, ward safety and police involvement.
In a statement issued last month, Baroness Lampard said a public evidence session – due to run from 20 April to 7 May – had been cancelled, and would instead be used for the pre-recorded evidence sessions.
Baroness Lampard said there had been “some delay” in receiving material – such as witness statements and documents – from EPUT, as well as others.
“Unfortunately, such delays have impacted the ability of the inquiry to progress investigations and other work as quickly as I would like,” she said.
In December last year, solicitors acting for the bereaved families warned the inquiry risked failing to meet its legal duty unless it set out a “clear plan and roadmap”.
Maya Sikand KC, speaking for families represented by three law firms, said there were “urgent concerns” and described facing “a wall of silence” from the inquiry team.
“Without a robust and urgent roadmap, there is a real risk this inquiry will not be able to fulfil its statutory objectives in the allotted time,” she warned.
In an earlier statement to the inquiry, EPUT apologised to everyone failed by mental health services in Essex.
EPUT Chief Executive Paul Scott said: “We will continue to do all we can to support Baroness Lampard and her team to provide the answers that patients, families and carers are seeking.”
The hearings will continue next year with closing statements expected in June 2027.