Scott Taylor

On 16th May 2023 I commenced an investigation into the death of Scott Alan Taylor, aged 49 years. 

My investigation concluded at the end of his inquest hearing on 6th July 2026.

The medical cause of death was –

1a Pressure on neck 1b Hanging 

Scott Taylor died on 12th May 2023 after suspending himself  [REDACTED]. This act caused his death and this was his intention. 

A conclusion of suicide was recorded.

Mr Taylor at the time of his death was suffering with a profound and long standing mental illness. It was diagnosed as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. He was receiving treatment in the community, but he had also been treated as an in patient. His condition was  resistant to treatment at the time of his death. 

Referrals had been made to a tertiary service to provide specialist treatment for his  condition. Access to this service is dependant on the patient completing a certain amount of treatment in primary and secondary settings before a referral can be accepted. 

It was heard in evidence that at the time of Mr Taylor’s death, had he been successful in  accessing this centre, there was a waiting list of over 12-15 months before treatment could begin. 

The only centre to provide this care at the time was in London. Mr Taylor lived in the North East of England. 

Mr Taylor, two days prior to his death had expressed his feelings of hopelessness due to  the inability of accessing specialist treatment at such a centre and the timescales involved.

In my opinion unless action is taken to address the above concerns then there is a significant risk of future deaths and I believe each of you have the power  to take such action.