His Honour Judge John Potter has been appointed as Chair of the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys (TEWV) Inquiry.
The appointment was made by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. Judge Potter will formally take up the role on 21 September 2026.
The Inquiry concerns matters relating to Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, which provides mental health and learning disability services across the North East and North Yorkshire.
Who Is Judge John Potter?
His Honour Judge John Potter is a retired Circuit Judge and former Deputy Judge of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division).
He has more than 40 years’ experience in public service, judicial leadership, governance and the administration of justice.
During his career, Judge Potter has worked on complex and sensitive cases and has experience in evidence review, governance and working with bereaved families and vulnerable individuals.
He served as Resident Judge at Manchester Crown Court (Minshull Street), where he was responsible for one of the busiest criminal court centres in England and Wales.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he led work to maintain criminal justice services and establish three Nightingale Courts. He was later invited to share the lessons learned from this work with senior judicial leaders across England and Wales.
Judge Potter has also been involved in inquiries, reviews and public accountability processes.
What Has Judge Potter Said About The Inquiry?
Following his appointment, Judge Potter said that his first priority would be to meet and listen to patients, families and others affected by the matters the Inquiry will examine.
He said that their experiences would help inform the development of the Inquiry’s Terms of Reference.
Judge Potter also said that the Inquiry would approach its work independently, thoroughly and fairly, and with respect for everyone who takes part.
What Happens Next?
The Inquiry team will provide Judge Potter with materials to support his understanding of the Inquiry and its work to date.
Judge Potter will consider priority areas, including the Terms of Reference for the Inquiry.
The Terms of Reference will set out the matters that the Inquiry will examine and define the scope of its work.
The Inquiry team has said that arrangements for people affected by the Inquiry to meet with Judge Potter will be communicated in due course.
The Inquiry team has also stated that it intends to provide information about progress and key decisions as the Inquiry develops.
Support For Those Affected By TEWV
The TEWV Inquiry is examining matters concerning services provided by Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.
If you or a family member has been affected by the matters being considered by the Inquiry and you would like to discuss your circumstances, our team at Watson Woodhouse can provide information about the legal support that may be available. You can call us on 01642 247656. Alternatively, complete our online contact form and one of our solicitors will be in touch.