Muckamore Abbey Hospital inquiry seeks public input on recent resettlement experiences

Tom Kark KC, Chair of the Inquiry

The Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry has issued a public call for information regarding recent and ongoing experiences of patient resettlement from the hospital, as it works to finalise its comprehensive report.

The inquiry, which has been examining events at the Antrim-based facility, is urging patients, their families, and carers to share their experiences to help shape its recommendations.

The inquiry, chaired by Tom Kark KC, is specifically seeking voluntary contributions from those involved in the resettlement process from 14 June 2021 to the present. This request extends to individuals who have previously engaged with the inquiry as well as those who have not yet come forward.

The deadline for contacting the inquiry team is 25 April 2025.

Muckamore Abbey Hospital, a mental health facility, has been under scrutiny for its care practices and management. The inquiry, established to investigate events at the hospital between 2 December 1999 and 14 June 2021, completed its evidence sessions in October 2024 and heard closing statements from core participants earlier this month.

Now, as the panel prepares its final report, it is keen to ensure its recommendations reflect the most recent experiences of resettlement.

Tom Kark KC, Chair of the Inquiry, said:

“The Inquiry’s Terms of Reference required the Panel to look at events at Muckamore Abbey Hospital between 02 December 1999 and 14 June 2021.

“However, the Inquiry Panel is aware that some patients and their families have continued to experience difficulties with the process of resettlement since June 2021.

“If the Panel decides to make recommendations about resettlement in its report, it wants to make sure that it has given an opportunity to people to tell the Panel about these recent experiences.”

To facilitate contributions, the inquiry has outlined three methods for individuals to share their experiences: attending small group sessions before the panel, participating in individual sessions in early June, or submitting a written note detailing their experiences.

Those wishing to contribute are encouraged to complete a contact form available on the inquiry’s website, www.mahinquiry.org.uk, by the 25 April deadline.

Support with completing the form is available by calling 02890 515462 or emailing info@mahinquiry.org.uk. The inquiry team will follow up with respondents after the deadline to provide details of next steps.

“We would encourage anyone who has information, or wishes to provide us with any detail, large or small, to complete the contact form as a first step before the 25th of April,” Mr Kark added.

The call for information underscores the inquiry’s commitment to ensuring its final report is informed by a broad range of perspectives, particularly from those directly affected by the resettlement process.

The panel’s recommendations are expected to address systemic issues and propose improvements to support patients transitioning from Muckamore Abbey Hospital to community-based care.

The inquiry’s work has drawn significant attention in Northern Ireland, where concerns about patient care and safeguarding at Muckamore Abbey have been a focal point for campaigners and families. By inviting further public input, the panel aims to deliver a report that not only reflects historical challenges but also addresses ongoing concerns to improve future outcomes for patients and their families.

Individuals with relevant experiences are urged to act promptly to ensure their voices are heard before the 25 April 2025 deadline.

Further information and the contact form can be accessed at www.mahinquiry.org.uk.