A public inquiry is currently investigating the deaths of over 2000 mental health inpatients in the care of NHS trusts in Essex. The inquiry resumes this week, but the fact it exists at all is largely down to the campaign of one woman; Melanie Leahy, whose son Matthew died in Chelmsford in 2012.

This programme includes material that some listeners may find distressing, including descriptions of suicide.

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Guest: Melanie Leahy, campaigner and mother of Matthew.

Host: Daniel Gordon.

Producers: Daniel Gordon, Edward Drummond.

We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com

If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised, the following organisations can help:

SANE is a charity which provides emotional support and specialist services for people who need help with their mental health and their families. Its helpline, SANEline, is 0300 304 7000. Details of other ways to get in touch can be found at sane.org.uk

MIND is another mental health charity offering support, its main information line is 0300 102 1234 Details of other helplines can be found at mind.org.uk

The Samaritans provides 24 hour emotional support to people struggling to cope or relatives bereaved by suicide. Call 116 123, or visit samaritans.org.

Clips: Melanie Leahy, Essex Police, Lampard Inquiry, Sky News, The Telegraph, UK Parliament Youtube channel, Channel 5 News.

Photo: JOE GIDDENS/PA

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Britain’s mental health reckoning - part one

The Story