Investigation and inquest
On 27th October 2017 I commenced an investigation into the death of Marcus HANCE. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 31st May 2018. The conclusion of the inquest was as follows
Marcus HANCE died on 13th October 2017 at The Queens Head Inn, North Street, St Austell from the synergistic effect of a reckless overdose of illicit and therapeutic drugs, within the context of a history of drug abuse.
My conclusion as to the death is that it was Drug Related.
Circumstances of the death
Marcus Hance was found dead at his home address from a reckless overdose of illicit and therapeutic drugs, including amphetamine and heroin.
Marcus had a complex medical history which included a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder and a history of drug abuse. This was characterised as a dual diagnosis, namely a personality disorder and drug dependency.
The evidence from the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CPT) concerned the role of the Mental Health Services. This included Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) assessments which revealed a long history of mental health difficulties and a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. The CPT conclusion on a number of repeat referrals was that the drug dependency should be addressed before any mental health treatment could proceed.
On the occasion that the deceased was referred to CMHT, Marcus was discharged following two instances of non-attendance at CMHT appointments.
Addaction provided care and treatment from 2013 to 2017 in an attempt to deal with the drug dependency. The only real engagement was from March 2017 but was problematic and progress was not sustained. The work by Addaction did not involve any measures to address the mental health issues, but was focused upon addressing the drug abuse. Marcus continued to abuse drugs up until his death.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) Marcus was in a position where he was getting support with his drug dependency from the drug and alcohol team but was not able to access support for the mental health issues which were associated with the drug dependency.
(2) The approach to cases of dual diagnosis, that substance misuse should be addressed before any mental health treatment could proceed.
(3) The discharge from CMHT on failing to attend two appointments.