Findings are published today of an independent investigation into the care and treatment of Mr Z.

On 7 May 2016 Mr Z started a fire at his block of flats on 7 May 2016 and sadly, Ms A, who was eight months pregnant, was in the building and though found by emergency services, died two days later in hospital. Prior to the incident he had been in contact with primary care services in Essex and mental health services provided by South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (known as Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust since April 2017).

The main purpose of an independent investigation is to ensure that mental health care related homicides are investigated in such a way that lessons can be learned effectively to reduce the chance of recurrence. The investigation process may also identify areas where improvements to services might be required which could help prevent similar incidents occurring.

The underlying aim is to identify common risks and opportunities to improve patient safety and make recommendations for organisational and system learning.

A full copy of the independent investigation report is available on the NHS England and NHS Improvement – East of England website.