The tragic death of Nathan Cunliffe, a young father who was hit by a train after escaping from a mental health unit, has prompted his devastated partner, Lauren Sayburn, to launch legal action. Nathan, who had been known to mental health services since September 2018, went missing from his home for five days over Christmas 2021. He was found sleeping rough and taken to A&E before being transferred to Hollins Park Hospital in Winwick, where he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act 1983. However, on the evening of January 11, 2022, Nathan managed to abscond from the hospital by climbing over an eight-foot garden fence unaided. His body was later discovered on the railway line between Hollins Park and Warrington Bank Quay, at just 28 years old.
The Legal Action and Investigation
Following Nathan’s untimely death, Lauren Sayburn sought the expertise of specialist medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and secure the future of the couple’s two children. An inquest jury at Warrington Coroner’s Court in February of the same year concluded that Nathan’s death was a result of suicide. The court also highlighted significant issues, including an insufficient risk assessment of the hospital garden area and an inappropriate staff-to-patient ratio within the facility. In response to these findings, Lauren has initiated legal action against Hollins Park Hospital, aiming to seek accountability and justice for what happened to Nathan.
The Impact of Nathan’s Passing
Nathan Cunliffe, who had a background in scaffolding, had been in contact with mental health services intermittently since 2018. His final admission to Austen Ward at Hollins Park Hospital on December 30, 2021, tragically culminated in his demise less than two weeks later. Lauren, reflecting on the loss of Nathan, expressed the ongoing pain and heartbreak she feels knowing that their children will grow up without their father’s guidance and presence. She vividly remembers the devastating moment she was informed of Nathan’s passing, an event that shattered her world and forever changed the trajectory of her life and that of her children.
The Quest for Answers and Justice
Lauren continues to grapple with unanswered questions about Nathan’s care and the events leading up to his death. While the inquest identified certain lapses in the hospital’s protocols, Lauren remains steadfast in her pursuit of truth and justice for Nathan. Ayse Ince, the legal representative from Irwin Mitchell, emphasized the importance of addressing Lauren’s concerns and uncovering the circumstances surrounding Nathan’s passing to prevent similar tragedies in the future. People struggling with mental health issues, as Nathan did, deserve the highest standard of care and support to ensure their well-being and safety.
The Hospital’s Response and Improvements
Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, the entity managing Hollins Park Hospital, extended its condolences to Nathan’s loved ones and acknowledged the tragic incident. Following an internal investigation into Nathan’s care at the hospital, several areas were identified for improvement, including enhancing fencing to prevent absconding and reviewing care practices. The trust remains committed to enhancing its services to prevent future occurrences and provide better support to individuals grappling with mental health challenges.
Raising Awareness and Prevention
As September marks Suicide Prevention Month, organizations and individuals affected by suicide are advocating for open conversations about mental health and providing avenues for support and assistance. It is crucial to prioritize mental health awareness and destigmatize seeking help for those in need. Charities like Samaritans and PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 offer confidential support and guidance to individuals struggling with mental health issues or contemplating suicide. By fostering a supportive environment and encouraging dialogue, we can work together to prevent future tragedies and support those in crisis.
In conclusion, Nathan Cunliffe’s untimely passing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for improved support systems for individuals facing mental health challenges. Through legal action, advocacy, and raising awareness, we can honor Nathan’s memory by striving for better mental health care and prevention measures. Let us continue to support those in need and work towards a society where mental health is prioritized, and individuals receive the care and compassion they deserve.