National law firm Stephensons represented the family of Claire Louise Morris who died after an act of self-harm in her home in Wythenshawe where she was receiving 24-hour supervision under the care of Jigsaw Hospital, which was run by Equilibrium Healthcare.
A jury at Manchester Coroners Court, concluded after a 4 day inquest, that there was 'a lack of training into the management of self-harm patients' at the time of Ms Morris' death. They further highlighted failings in the care provided to Ms Morris, including a lack of effective communication between staff - particularly on the night of her death.
They also found a lack of documented procedures and policies - and training in relation to both of these areas.
Natalie Tolley, associate in the public law and inquest team at Stephensons said “The tragic circumstances of this case reflect the fact that staff didn’t pay sufficient attention to Claire’s concerns or anxieties. The jury found that there was a lack of communication between staff members and the hospital responsible for her care which had granted extended home leave on the basis that she would be safe and adequately supervised by staff in her own home.
Unfortunately, there was a lack of risk assessment, communication or care planning which meant that Claire’s increased risk of self-harming was not noted or communicated. Tragically, the self-harming event on 15 December 2020 lead to Claire’s death.”
The matter was reported by the Manchester Evening News: Woman's tragic death 'would have been avoided' if not for mental health unit neglect