Investigation and inquest
On the 3rd July, an investigation into the death of David Clark aged 64 commenced. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on the 6th February 2020. The conclusion of the inquest was that he had taken his own life.
Circumstances of the death
The deceased was compulsorily detained at the Orchard Hospital under section 3 of the mental health act. He had a diagnosis of personality disorder. On the 26th June 2019 at around 19.26 hours he left the Orchard on an escorted leave and was found the following morning and in the Lancaster canal. The cause of death was drowning.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) That documentation in relation to leave was not completed fully and incorrect forms used
(2) That the AWOL procedure was not followed.
(3) That a handover was not undertaken between Safety and Security workers.
(4) That there was a lack of training on policy and procedure.
(5) That there remains outstanding an appropriately sufficient action plan.