Outcome of an inquest into the care of Cariss Stone

Jane Yeandle, service group director for mental health and learning disabilities at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust said:

“Our deepest sympathies go out to Cariss’ family for their tragic loss. We apologise wholeheartedly for the shortcomings in the care we provided.

“We accept the coroner’s findings and will act on those recommendations.

“In 2019 we commissioned an external review, which touched on some of the themes discussed at the inquest and made a number of improvements to our systems and processes to ensure we are working in line with best practice. We will look closely at the coroner’s finding to see whether there’s more we can do.

“We have improved the training for colleagues who undertake clinical observations, to ensure all details are clearly recorded and that colleagues communicate more effectively with each other. We will also undertake to improve the way we involve and communicate with families during the investigation of incidents.

“Once again our thoughts are with Cariss’ family at what we realise will be a very difficult time.”