Neglect by Cheadle Hospital contributed to death of mental health blogger, inquest finds
Beth Matthews died in March last year after taking a poisonous substance whilst at the hospital
Last updated 19th Jan 2023
Beth Matthews died in March last year after taking a poisonous substance whilst at the hospital.
A hospital in Cheadle has been told neglect on its part caused the death of a young mental health blogger.
A jury at South Manchester Coroner’s Court found neglect from Priory Hospital Cheadle Royal led to the death of Beth Matthews.
The 26-year from Cornwall, who had thousands of followers thanks to her mental health blog, died in March 2022 after taking a poisonous substance whilst at the hospital.
During the course of the inquest the jury heard how, despite being treated on a secure ward for a personality disorder, she was able to take a substance she had ordered from Russia.
Police also found she had repeatedly visited websites which discussed suicide methods.
Lack of communication & failure to manage risk factors
Today after deliberations a jury at South Manchester Coroner’s Court concluded her death was as a result of suicide contributed to by neglect.
A lack of communication between staff and failures to manage risk factors contributed to an increased risk to her, the court heard.
A jury concluded staff at the hospital allowed her to open a package she had ordered whilst two staff 'were at arms length' which was against her care plan.
The package contained a poision which she injested and later died.
"We fully accept the jury’s findings"
A spokesperson for the hospital said:
“We want to extend our deepest condolences to Beth’s family and friends for their loss. Beth’s attempts to overcome her mental health challenges had been an inspiration for many. Although unexpected deaths are extremely rare, we recognise that every loss of life in our care is a tragedy.
"We fully accept the jury’s findings and acknowledge that far greater attention should have been given to Beth’s care plan.
"At the time of Beth’s unexpected death, we took immediate steps to address the issues around how we document risk and communicate patients’ care plans, alongside our processes for receiving and opening post.
"Patient safety is our utmost priority and we will now review the Coroner’s comments in detail and make all necessary, additional changes to our policies and procedures.”
Seeking help
If you've found anything in this article distressing, or feel you need to seek support, here are some options:
- In an emergency call 999
- Speak to your GP
- Call Samaritans on 116 123
- Text SHOUT to 85258
- Find Local services via www.hubofhope.co.uk