Hazel Claire Polkinghorn · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 29/4/13 I commenced an investigation into the death of Hazel Claire Polkinghorn (33 years), the conclusion of the inquest on 17/2/14 was a Narrative Conclusion.

Hazel Polkinghorn had a history of mental health difficulties extending back to her teenage years. In 2012 she was diagnosed with Emotionally Unstable Personality disorder (borderline) and Hypochondriacal Disorder. She had recently been admitted (on a voluntary basis) to a local Psychiatric Hospital between the 8th July 2012 and 10th November 2012. On the 21st November 2012 Miss Polkinghorn was transferred to Discovery House (a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Unit) once again based in Lincoln. Whilst at Discovery House she received Psychological treatment. On or about 9th April 2013 Miss Polkinghorn was discharged from Discovery House into the Community; she took up residency in a flat. A package of support had been agreed at her discharge meeting on 9th April 2013. It was established at the inquest that Miss Polkinghorn had acquired non-prescribed medication from the internet for a period of some 4 to 4 ½ years prior to her death. It was further established at or about 25th March 2013, Miss Polkinghorn obtained further non prescribed medication from the internet which appears to have been despatched from Mexico. On the 24th April 2013 Miss Polkinghorn was found deceased in her flat having taken an overdose of Pentobarbital. Miss Polkinghorn left notes intimating that she intended to take her own life.

Miss Polkinghorn acquired non prescribed medication from the internet. She took an overdose of the drugs so acquired and died on the 24th April 2013. I am deeply concerned regarding the ease with which Miss Polkinghorn managed to acquire Pentobarbital (and other medication) from the internet. I am particularly concerned that other similar deaths will occur unless steps are taken by Central Government to screen and close down websites such as this which are engaged in selling potentially dangerous non prescribed medication.