Failure to Prevent Suicide Claims
If a loved one has taken their own life while under the care of those who knew suicide was a risk, there may be a breach in duty of care.
If someone is a known suicide risk and they kill themselves while under mental health care, there may be a case for medical negligence.
What is meant by failure to prevent suicide?
Suicide is the leading cause of death among people aged 20-34 in the UK. In 2018, there were 6,507 suicides in the UK, with three-quarters of those by men.
If the potential for suicide is foreseeable and adequate preventable measures are not taken to stop it happening, there could be a failure to prevent suicide. This could include:
- Failure to act on known risks
- Failure to refer someone for help
- Discharging a patient too early
- Failure to safeguard or implement adequate care plans
- Inadequate community care
- Failing to prevent access to dangerous substances or equipment
How can First4Lawyers help?
We know how devastating it is when a loved one takes their own life. It’s a lot to take in and you will have many questions.
Our expert medical negligence solicitors have a lot of experience with these cases and are here to listen with sensitivity and compassion.
Once you have told us the situation, we will take you through all your possible options. If you have a case, we will explain it all to you, including our No Win No Fee service for claims in England and Wales.
Only pay a fee if you receive compensation
Where we offer No Win No Fee services typically customers pay 25% of the amount recovered to our solicitors, although this may be higher or lower subject to your individual circumstances. Please note this excludes claims for Road Traffic Accidents where customers typically pay 35% + VAT due to changes introduced through the Civil Liability Act 2018.
First4Lawyers are an award-winning claims management company with a track record of delivering service that our clients love.
Is there a time limit for making a claim?
There is usually a three-year period, from the date of death.
I think I have a claim, what do I do next?
Get in touch with us as soon as you can. Our friendly advisors will treat you with sensitivity and understanding. They will need to ask questions to assess your options.
Once you know what your options are, it’s completely up to you whether you want to proceed.
