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Suicide while in a secure unit under observation

Nancy had a history of psychological problems including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts and began to develop alcoholic problems as an escape. Nancy suffered with these symptoms over 20 years being diagnosed as clinically depressed by her GP and being a voluntary patient at various homes during these years.

Nancy was eventually detained under Section 3 of the Mental Health Act and admitted into a secure unit which houses only 8 patients at any one time. Nancy was originally placed onto a regime of 15 minute observations but this was later changed to general ward observations, merely requiring regular checks.

However, while in this secure unit Nancy unfortunately hung herself with the use of a bed sheet.

Nancy’s family pursued a claim against the local NHS Trust and was awarded £10,000 with the assistance of clinical negligence lawyer Luke Daniels.

Lawyer involved in this case

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