Clive was falsely accused of benefit fraud by the DWP and had his benefits cut. His sister, Trudi believes that the DWP’s conduct was the main factor in the deterioration of her brother’s mental health and suicide.

Read the letter to the Secretary of State Mel Stride from four families who lost loved ones in cases where the DWP was implicated in their death. They demand a public inquiry into deaths and serious harm linked to the benefits system.

Four opposition parties wrote to Chloe Smith, the former Work and Pensions Secretary, calling for a public inquiry into suicides and serious harm linked to the benefits system. The letter is signed by MPs representing the Liberal Democrats, Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru and the Green Party.

Based on evidence from over 100 people seriously harmed by the benefits system, we have found that the government’s approach to investigating death and serious harm is highly secretive and not fit for purpose.

Read our report Tip of the Iceberg? about deaths and serious harm of people supported by the benefits system and how key areas of the benefits process cause severe distress for people.