Cranston Inquiry - DfT Support Services

The Cranston Inquiry has been set up to look into the events of 24 November 2021, when at least 27 people lost their lives crossing the Channel. As part of the Inquiry public hearings will be held. The Inquiry is required to provide two counsellors/ support workers to attend in person each day of the hearing and support attendees and witnesses/ participants who are distressed or need immediate support at the hearing centre. Such support should be limited to assisting individuals to engage with the Inquiry ie sharing their experiences where appropriate and should not lead to ongoing support or counselling. Support workers can signpost to national support providers or specialist providers, but it should be clear that these services are independent of the Inquiry. Speed is of the essence in procuring these services are hearings may be imminent and they are of an extremely emotive nature.