7 September 2021

Before HM Coroner Peter Nieto
Chesterfield Coroner’s Court

Opened 6 September 2021
Scheduled for four days

Alasdair Conlon was 23 years old when he died whilst on leave as a sectioned mental health patient at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. He was found dead in his flat on 9 July 2017. An inquest has opened to explore the circumstances surrounding his death and the care provided by Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Alasdair’s family describe him as a much loved young man with a keen sense of humour and an infectious laugh. He was a talented musician who enjoyed composing, DJing and attending festivals. He was never happier than by the sea and was an accomplished surfer. 

With a history of mental ill health, Alasdair voluntarily went to hospital in September 2015. He was later sectioned from May to November 2016, and finally from April 2017 until his death.

From Friday 7 July 2017, Alasdair was granted weekend leave from hospital. His family were not informed until the Sunday afternoon when a staff nurse contacted them asking if they knew where he was. Later that day his father went to Alasdair’s flat where he was found dead. Toxicology reports suggest he died as a result of multiple toxic substances within his body.

The inquest will explore:

• the appropriateness of the decision to grant leave, including risk assessment, safeguards and involvement of the family,
• diagnosis and treatment during Alasdair’s final admission,
• care and discharge planning.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS
For further information, interview requests and to note your interest, please contact Lucy McKay on 020 7263 1111 or [email protected]

The family are represented by INQUEST Lawyers Group members Neil Cronin of Southerns Solicitors and Simon Murray of St John’s Buildings Chambers. They are supported by INQUEST caseworker Caroline Finney.

Other Interested persons represented are Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.                                                 

Journalists should refer to the Samaritans Media Guidelines for reporting suicide and self-harm and guidance for reporting on inquests.