Investigation and inquest
On 15th September 2014 I commenced an investigation into the death of Melanie Jane Amundsen, aged 55. The investigation concluded at the end of the Inquest on 28th May 2015 with the conclusion of a Misadventure.
Circumstances of the death
On 12th September 2014 at 7am Melanie Jane Amundsen was found in a bedroom at 8 Arden Square Farringdon Sunderland. Paramedics attended and her death was confirmed at 7.30am. Melanie Jane Amundsen who was a vulnerable adult had consumed a fatal amount of alcohol notwithstanding family support and a history of engagement with mental health services to support her.
Coroner’s concerns
Not every employer or employee may have an awareness of mental health issues in the work place, and in particular in respect of disciplinary processes.
Whilst ACAS (The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) have a very informative website and publications, there may be scope for it to be enhanced and better publicised so that both, employers and employees may have that awareness and act upon it.