Failings in Mental Health Services Lead to Patient’s Death

Trust Negligence During Son's Mental Health Treatment

Ben Davey has recently achieved a successful outcome against Kent and Medway NHS Trust hospital, on behalf of Melanie Brazier, representing her son, Steven. The Trust’s negligence during Steven’s mental health treatment, allowed his health to deteriorate to the extent that he died in 2014 at nineteen years of age.

Steven had a history of eating disorders. In December 2011 he was assessed by the Trust’s Eating Disorder Service and eventually in April 2012, he was transferred to a mental health service. It was revealed that Steven had life-threatening concerns, however before his treatment began, Steven left the unit.

The following day, Steven was admitted to the coronary care unit at Kent and Medway hospital. Despite his mother’s wishes, Steven was not sectioned under the Mental Health Act and after gaining some weight, Steven was discharged from the hospital, only four days later.

A month later, Steven was admitted to Kent and Medway hospital and was detained under the Mental Health Act. He responded well to the treatment and made good progress on his recovery. He had successful home visits and after nine months of treatment, a referral was attempted to the Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) which would have allowed Steven to return home to his family. The CMHT refused to accept Steven’s case, however despite this, Kent and Medway NHS Trust took the decision to discharge Steven. A decision which the Trust has now admitted was negligent.

Steven became withdrawn and isolated himself from friends and family. He became very demanding on his parents and his health was quickly deteriorating. Steven began to self-harm, cutting himself on his arm and on one occasion stood in the middle of busy dual carriageway. His mother pleaded for the mental health service to section him and recommence his treatment but sadly insufficient action was taken.

In February 2014 due to his deterioration in health Steven sadly suffered a cardiac arrest and died.

Ben Davey acted on behalf of Melanie and supported her throughout her claim against Kent and Medway NHS Trust. An admission of responsibility was obtained from them and financial settlement was achieved.

Our compassionate team is experienced in acting and obtaining answers in medical negligence cases. To speak to a member of our team for free of charge, please contact us on 01273 249200.