Investigation Finds Many Patients May Have Been Denied Inquests

Leading lawyers at Irwin Mitchell are deeply concerned by a ‘worrying’ investigation that claims hundreds of patients who died while detained under the Mental Health Act may have been denied inquests.

The law firm works closely with many families who’ve lost a loved one due to mental health problems and believe that, however difficult it may be, understanding why and how a death occurred is the key to preventing further tragedies in the future. 

Data supplied to the Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in Custody show 1,115 deaths of people detained under the Mental Health Act between 2011 and 2014.

However, Official Ministry of Justice figures analysed by the Health Service Journal show that just 373 deaths were reported to coroners in England and Wales during that period.

If the data is accurate then this means 742 people died without there being any subsequent investigation into their death.

Health watchdogs are currently examining NHS investigations into the deaths of patients, amid concern that the deaths of those with learning disabilities have not been reviewed properly.

Tom Fletcher, an expert medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell is deeply concerned by the findings of the investigation.

We can help you to claim compensation for clinical negligence if a serious injury or fatality has occurred as a result of inadequate supervision and care. See our Mental Health Negligence Compensation page for more information.