Lynne Featherstone

Lib Dem social services spokesperson, Ron Aitken today welcomed the coroner's report into the death of Roger Sutherland in February this year after being released by the Whittington Hospital.

An open verdict was given at the inquest at St Pancras Coroners' Court. However the coroner chose to use his powers, under rule 43 of the coroners' rules, to write to the Whittington Hospital Trust and other health services involved in Roger Sutherland's care and draw their attention to issues involving psychiatric liaison between Accident & Emergency, mental health teams and GPs.

Roger died after setting fire to his flat hours after being released by the Whittington Hospital. In the last few months leading up to the tragedy, Roger's family had turned to Councillor Ron Aitken for advice. He says that on six or seven occasions Roger's condition was made known to Ambulance drivers, his GP and the Whittington Hospital.

Cllr Ron Aitken comments:

"The death of Roger was a tragedy and our sympathy goes to the family. I am pleased that the coroner is writing to all involved and hope that some positive changes come out this."