Investigation and inquest
On 13ᵗʰ November 2018, I commenced an investigation into the death of David Alan Price The investigation concluded on the 24ᵗʰ April 2019 and the conclusion was one of Alcohol-Related Death.
Circumstances of the death
David Alan Price had a long history of using alcohol to cope with his mental health. He had successfully completed detoxification programmes in the past with subsequent relapses. He had accessed mental health services but with limited success. On 12ᵗʰ November 2018 he was found at his home address ████████ Post-mortem toxicology found a fatal blood alcohol reading of 509 mg%. There were no suspicious circumstances or third party involvement in his death.
Coroner’s concerns
The inquest heard evidence that David Alan Price had a long standing problem with alcohol which he used to self-medicate his anxiety in particular. He made a number of attempts to give up alcohol. These were ultimately unsuccessful. The inquest heard that one of the challenges was to provide support which would enable him to treat his mental health difficulties e.g. anxiety alongside detoxification and supporting him in staying alcohol free. The inquest heard that he would have benefited from an integrated mental health counselling/detoxification service. This would have enabled joint treatment. Such a programme is not available in Stockport.