A survivor of the Nottingham assaults, still plagued by persistent “nightmare” anguish, expresses disappointment at not being informed about an investigation into the mental health services provided to the perpetrator by the NHS.
Valdo Calocane, a paranoid schizophrenic, perpetrated the killings of Barnaby Webber, Grace O’Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates in June 2023 in Nottingham. Subsequently, he attempted to harm three more individuals in a shocking spree that gripped the nation.
An inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) revealed deficiencies in the Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s mental health services, citing instances where care lacked compassion, dignity, and quality during Calocane’s treatment from May 2020 to September 2022.
Survivor Wayne Birkett, along with his legal representative Greg Almond, voiced concerns over not being involved in the CQC evaluation process. They were only made aware of the report’s existence through media coverage a day before its release.
Following 39 inspections conducted by the CQC between May 2024 and August 2025, a comprehensive review of the trust’s leadership occurred last September. Wayne, a former forklift operator, sustained severe injuries during the attacks and has since endured ongoing physical and emotional distress.
Calocane pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and attempted murder, receiving an indefinite hospital order in January 2024, sparking public outrage over the absence of a murder conviction.
The published CQC report in January highlighted the trust’s failure to comply with management regulations, prompting a call for an action plan. Among the trust’s 18 services, seven were flagged for improvement, including five mental health services.
Wayne expressed surprise and frustration at not being informed or involved in the inspection process, emphasizing the importance of transparency and notification for victims. His legal counsel, Mr. Almond, echoed these sentiments, calling for victim inclusion and a more proactive approach to communication.
Ahead of a public inquiry into the attacks, Wayne and Mr. Almond are scheduled to meet Health Secretary Wes Streeting on February 5 to advocate for victim representation and engagement.
Discussing the need for enhanced safety measures, Wayne emphasized the imperative of preventing similar tragedies and urged for improvements within the NHS system.
Mr. Almond emphasized the importance of the Health Secretary listening to their concerns and outlining a strategic plan for addressing systemic issues promptly and effectively.
As preparations for the public inquiry progress, chaired by retired judge Deborah Taylor, Wayne’s legal team remains committed to uncovering the truth and seeking justice for the affected families.
Reflecting on the shocking findings of the CQC report, Mr. Almond stressed the necessity for immediate structural changes in leadership within the trust to ensure public safety and restore trust in healthcare services.
The Care Quality Commission’s interim director of mental health, Jenny Wilkes, extended sympathies to all affected by the tragic events in Nottingham, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to support survivors and address systemic shortcomings within the NHS.
In response to the report, the CQC continues its engagement with legal representatives of attack survivors to facilitate discussions and address critical issues identified in the review process.