Gordon Atkinson

On 18/02/2015 | commenced an investigation into the death of Gordon Eric Atkinson, 80 The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 07 August 2015. The conclusion of the inquest was NATURAL CAUSES AGGRAVATED BY SELF-NEGLECT The deceased died in Derriford Hospital, Plymouth on 6 February 2015. He had an unwitnessed fall against an oil filled fire towards the end of 2014 which resulted in burns_ He had numerous falls, he had mental capacity, he neglected himself in his own accommodation: His medical cause of death was (a) Bronchopneumonia and Coronary Disease II Infected Chest and Wounds

The deceased was divorced gentleman who lived alone in a Caravan at 19 Valley Walk, Glenholt; Plymouth: He had lived there since the 1970's following a divorce. The caravan was in poor condition, damp and had no running hot water: The deceased spent the majority of his time in his living room where he slept and ate mainly in his chair: He had twice weekly visits from the District Nurse Team. It appears that South Western Ambulance Service called on seven occasions at his address following falls: On 9 January he was admitted to a Care Home and then to a Nursing Home. He was admitted to Hospital where a safeguarding concern was raised. matter was investigated byL of Devon and Cornwall Police Public Protection Unit: She will be making a Report to Plymouth Adult Safeguarding Board.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and believe that Plymouth Council have the power to take such action: would ask please that the provision of care packages to vulnerable individuals who live alone, particularly in accommodation of the type occupied by the deceased (ie caravans without hot water) should be reviewed: understand_ will be drawing the matter to the attention of the Adult Safeguarding Board of which Plymouth City Council is a member: