Thu Sep 19 05:31:33 UTC 2024: ## Former Footballer’s Death Highlights Mental Health Crisis in Essex
The Lampard Inquiry, investigating over 2,000 mental health deaths in Essex, has heard the tragic story of Colin Flatt, an 81-year-old former professional footballer who died after being discharged from an inpatient mental health unit.
Flatt, who played for several clubs including Barnet and Southend United, was described as a successful businessman. His partner of 20 years, Melanie Leahy, who has been a driving force behind the inquiry, spoke of the harrowing circumstances leading to his death.
Leahy described finding Flatt “flanked by security guards, naked, lying in urine-soaked sheets” while suffering from a severe infection. She expressed frustration at the lack of progress in his inquest, highlighting the feeling of “dread and deja vu” she experiences.
Leahy also previously testified about the death of her son, Matthew, who died in 2012 while under the care of NHS mental health services in Essex. She described the last eight days of his life as “hell on Earth” and said she misses both her son and partner deeply.
The inquiry also heard from Alan Oxton, whose father Stephen took his own life at The Lakes mental health unit in 2012. Oxton described feeling betrayed by staff who assured him his father was safe, and said multiple failings were uncovered during the inquest.
Martha Gaskell, mother of Marion Turner who died at The Lakes in 2013, also expressed frustration with the lack of care her daughter received. Gaskell believes her daughter did not get the support she needed and felt unheard as her mother.
In response, the chief executives of Essex Partnership University Trust and NELFT, which provide mental health services in the county, expressed their commitment to learning from the inquiry and ensuring patient safety.
The inquiry is ongoing, with sessions scheduled throughout 2024 and 2025. The final report is expected in late 2026.
First Piper 