Investigation and inquest
On 2nd June 2016 I began an investigation into the death of Terry Stapleton Latimer who died on 27th May 2016 by hanging. The investigation concluded with an inquest on 25th May 2017
Circumstances of the death
On 27th May 2016 the deceased was found dead by hanging at his home address. An inquest determined he died by suicide. The deceased received inpatient care in local psychiatric services between 18th April and 25th April 2016. On 15th May 2016 Police persuaded him to attend A&E at Scunthorpe General Hospital following safety concerns. The deceased did not wait to be seen.
A Safeguarding notification was generated by the attending Police Officer and submitted through usual procedures on 16th May 2016.
Coroner’s concerns
The safeguarding notice was not acted upon either at all or appropriately. In particular a request accompanying the notice that the case be referred to Mental Health Services was not complied with. Evidence indicates lack of clarity in understanding whether the notice is just for information or should be followed up.