Investigation and inquest
On 11th June 2014 I commenced an investigation into the death of Sian Leigh ARMSTRONG, Aged 17. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 14th January 2015. The conclusion of the inquest was as follows:
Medical Cause of Death
1a) Hanging
Conclusion
Sian Armstrong had a history of depression, she was under the care of the mental health service and on the balance of probability took her own life.
Circumstances of the death
Sian had a history of depression. In March 2014 she made an attempt on her life by way of an overdose. Following this she had been seen by the Mental Health Team. Sian was assessed as needing to receive CBT but from the time of the assessment in March 2014 until her death in June 2014 she had not received CBT
Coroner’s concerns
1. There was a delay in Sian receiving CBT which she was assessed as requiring.
2. At the inquest I indicated that I would ask North Bristol NHS Trust for reassurance that steps will be taken to ensure that this therapy is available to children who are assessed as needing it in a timely manner