Benjamin NELSON-ROUX · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 14 April 2020 I commenced an investigation into the death of Benjamin NELSON-ROUX aged 16. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 13 March 2023. The conclusion of the inquest was a narrative:

On 8 April 2020 Benjamin Nelson Roux, aged 16 and a Child in Need, was found unresponsive at 23 Robert Street, Harrogate, a hostel for homeless adults in which he had been temporarily placed due to there being no more suitable accommodation available. His death was confirmed there at 16.50 hours that day. The cause of his death is unascertained. He had taken multiple drugs of abuse prior to death, the impact of which cannot be determined with any degree of confidence. It cannot be concluded that his accommodation has contributed to his death.

Ben Nelson Roux was 16 years of age and a Child in Need. He was a regular user of alcohol and drugs of abuse which impacted on his relationship with his family, his offending behaviour (he was a victim of child criminal exploitation) and his physical and mental health. He became homeless and was placed in an adult hostel as there was no other suitable accommodation in the County he lived in at the time. He was found deceased on the 8 April 2020. He had taken multiple drugs of abuse prior to his death the impact of which could not be determined with any degree of confidence.

1. The search for suitable accommodation (in this instance for a homeless 16 year old Child in Need) did not extend beyond the County boundary.
2. The lack of any residential substance misuse treatment facilities for children and young persons under the age of 18.