Investigation and inquest
On 28th September 2020 I commenced an investigation into the death of Mr Stuart Tokam. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 12th August 2021. The conclusion of the inquest was Mr Tokam died from 1a Hanging A short-form conclusion of Suicide was arrived at.
Circumstances of the death
The deceased had a documented history of depressive illness and had previously made two attempts to take his own life.
On 9th July 2020 a referral was made on Mr Tokam's behalf to the Camden and Islington NHS Trust - CDAT – Complex Depression, Anxiety and Trauma Service.
Despite the details of the referral specifically outlining acute concerns regarding the acuity of Mr Tokam’s risk of suicide, no clinical assessment was arranged for the patient until 5th October 2020.
Mr Tokam hanged himself from railings in the car park of Dalaman Airport, Turkey on 18th September 2020.
Coroner’s concerns
1. There was an unacceptable delay in arranging a clinical assessment of Mr Tokam.
2. There appears to have been no process in place to triage the acuity of a referral and expedite a clinical assessment where necessary.