03 Dec Press Release: Inquest into Death of Jessica Powell to Start on 9 December 2024
3 December 2024
The parents of Jessica Powell are hoping that an upcoming inquest will answer their questions about their daughter’s death following an incident on a mental health ward 4 years ago.
Jessica died on 22 August 2020 following an incident on 19 August 2020 at Rowan Ward, Summerlands Hospital in Yeovil, Somerset. She was 20 years old. Jessica was from Somerset, where her parents still live.
Jessica was first referred to mental health services as a child. She spent a large proportion of her teenage years as an inpatient in various mental health units across the country. When she turned 18, she was transferred to adult mental health services and her inpatient admissions were at Rowan Ward, which was closer to home.
She had a diagnosis of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (‘EUPD’). She had a history of self-harm and absconding.
At the time of the incident, Jessica was detained under the Mental Health Act. Her final inpatient admission had lasted about 11 months. She was due to move to a specialist personality disorder unit in Cambridge within the following week.
On the evening of 19 August 2020, ward staff found Jessica apparently stuck part way through a window that was open but subject to window restrictors. She received emergency medical treatment and was taken to Yeovil District Hospital, but sadly died from her injuries on 22 August 2020.
An inquest is now due to take place between 9 and 18 December 2024 before Assistant Coroner Vanessa McKinlay at Wells Town Hall.
Jessica’s parents, John and Victoria Powell, said:
“Jess was a very special person. She was funny, determined, and intelligent. We have been devastated by her death. We have a number of concerns about how Jess died and whether more could have been done to keep her safe. We have waited a long time to ask our questions and hope that we will get some answers at the inquest.”
Jessica’s parents will not be commenting further until the conclusion of the inquest.
ENDS
Notes for editors:
- Jessica Powell’s family are represented by Ruth Mellor and Emma Gregg of Deighton Pierce Glynn solicitors, and by Ben McCormack of Garden Court North Chambers. They are also supported by the charity INQUEST.
- The final inquest hearing will be held in person, but facilities for remote attendance may be available. Enquiries for remote attendance should be directed to Somerset Coroner’s Service.
- Request for photographs and further information should be directed to bristoladmin@dpglaw.co.uk.
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