Press Release – September 2026
Law firm Ison Harrison, which represents hundreds of patients and bereaved families affected by failings at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV), has today welcomed the appointment of His Honour Judge John Potter as Chair of the statutory public inquiry into the Trust’s services. This news comes 6 years after Alistair Smith and a dedicated team first started to campaign alongside some of the individuals and families that have been affected.
The announcement comes several months after the Government confirmed that a statutory public inquiry would be established following mounting concerns regarding patient safety, care standards and accountability within the Trust. Whilst families have welcomed today’s progress, many have expressed frustration at the delay in appointing a Chair and commencing the next stage of the Inquiry.
His Honour Judge John Potter is a retired Circuit Judge and former Deputy Judge of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division), with more than forty years’ experience in public service, judicial leadership and the administration of justice. During his judicial career he was Resident Judge at Manchester Crown Court, one of the busiest Crown Courts in England and Wales. He also has extensive experience reviewing complex evidence, engaging with bereaved families and vulnerable individuals, and participating in public accountability processes. His background is expected to provide strong and experienced leadership for the Inquiry as it moves into its next phase.
The statutory Inquiry, which will officially start on the 21st September, is expected to examine serious concerns regarding care and service delivery within TEWV, including issues linked to a number of patient deaths and serious incidents. The Inquiry will seek to establish what went wrong, identify any systemic failings and make recommendations aimed at improving patient safety and mental health services in the future.
Sarah Magson, Partner at Ison Harrison, said:
“We welcome the appointment of His Honour Judge John Potter and hope this marks a significant step forward for the Inquiry and the many individuals and families who have fought so hard to ensure their voices are heard.
Whilst today’s announcement is positive, it comes after many months of uncertainty and delay for families and individuals who were originally assured that the Inquiry would progress at pace. Many of our clients have spent years seeking answers about the care their loved ones received, and the lack of progress since the Inquiry was announced has been extremely difficult. We also urge any existing patients who have been affected to contact us so we can provide them with the advice and support that they need.
Judge Potter brings considerable judicial and leadership experience to the role. We are encouraged by his commitment to meeting and listening to those affected, and we hope that those affected will now be placed firmly at the heart of the Inquiry process.
It is essential that momentum is maintained. We look forward to working constructively with the Chair and Inquiry team as they develop the Terms of Reference and begin the important work of establishing the truth, ensuring accountability and delivering meaningful change.”
With a Chair now appointed, attention is expected to turn to the development of the Inquiry’s Terms of Reference and engagement with affected patients and families. The Chair has already indicated that meeting those affected will be an early priority and that their experiences will help shape the future direction of the Inquiry.
ENDS
Further Information
Media enquiries and interview requests for Sarah Magson, Alistair Smith or family representatives should be directed to Ison Harrison on 01642 070860 or via email at TEWVinquiry@isonharrison.co.uk.
Anyone affected by care at the Trust can find details about legal representation at https://www.isonharrison.co.uk/tewv-inquiry-form/ or visit the Rebuild Trust campaign platform at https://www.rebuildtrust.co.uk.
