Learning disabilities: Cornwall murder review campaign launches

East Cornwall Mencap and the Cornish Guardian newspaper have co-launched a campaign calling for an independent, public inquiry into the death of a man with learning disabilities.

Steven Hoskin was murdered in St Austell in July last year by a group of people who moved into his house.  Three people were sentenced last month for his murder. 

Cornwall’s adult protection committee is carrying out a six month serious case review into the case, but Reg Broad, chairman of East Cornwall Mencap, is demanding a public inquiry to restore confidence in adult social care.

“What is needed is reassurance that people placed in the community won’t be left out there isolated and vulnerable,” he said.

Together with the Cornish Guardian, Broad has asked the council and agencies to answer 10 questions about Hoskin’s care, including asking for the name of the last official to see Hoskin alive.   

“The major thing for us is to have the inquiry open and transparent – not behind closed doors.  We need reassurance for parents and people with learning disabilities themselves,” Broad added.

In response to the campaign, the council’s chief executive, Sheila Healy will meet Broad on Friday morning. 

East Cornwall Mencap blew the whistle on abuse of people with learning disabilities in Cornwall, leading to a damning investigation that was published by Healthcare Commission and the Commission for Social Care Inspection last year on the same day Hoskin was murdered.

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More Information
Support for the campaign
Essential information on learning disabilities
Community Care A Life Like Any Other campaign
Community Care Mission Statement

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Caroline Lovell