Inquiry into Nottingham attacks aims to uncover failures in mental health care and police actions within two years.
Families feel there’s “no going back” now. A judge could soon lead the London inquiry. Sadly, Barnaby Webber, Grace O’Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates died after Valdo Calocane killed them in 2023. He also tried to kill three others.
Their meeting followed a review that found mental health care failings. Calocane received this care before the attacks. The families want a public inquiry to investigate authorities’ actions, including the police and the NHS.
Emma Webber discussed the importance of statutory powers, stating that “statutory” was the key word. It means everyone must participate, and Statutory powers compel attendance at the inquiry, to investigate everything. She emphasized it’s not a witch hunt; it’s about holding people responsible, including systems and institutions.
If people and systems are not held responsible, nothing changes. Webber also mentioned the NHS mental health report, highlighting that people still lack proper mental health care. The goal is to start this year and finish in two.
Parliament must announce the inquiry, as there is no going back on this decision. Calocane got a hospital order in January 2024 after he admitted manslaughter and attempted murder. An NHS review found issues where inpatient services didn’t value insights enough. The Early Intervention team cared for Calocane, but he refused medication because of needles.
Families want those who failed him named. Sinead O’Malley said mental health is key for public safety and patient well-being, as patients do not receive proper treatment. The Independent Office investigates police actions, involving Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire Police.
David Webber said they’ve seen and heard enough. With the IOPC not progressing fast enough, he feels there’s still more information to uncover. Webber stated, “You can’t dodge the difficult questions,” noting it’s awful to become used to this situation.
Greg Almond represents two survivors and wants their voices heard, striving to ensure they are heard at the top level. “We will continue to campaign for the truth,” he stated about the pursuit of justice for these survivors.
He declared their determination for answers, wanting to know what led to the events and how things went wrong. The truth is vital for everyone, including families and Nottingham residents. Almond also wants survivors involved in government meetings and the inquiry. He wants Wayne to have closure, which will allow him to move on, and seeks answers about his life change.