A coroner has ruled that Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) was neglectful in its handling of Abbi Smith, 26, leading to her death shortly after she was discharged from their care. The findings stem from an inquest into Smith’s death, which occurred the day following her release from the Linden Centre, an inpatient unit operated by EPUT.

The coroner’s statement specifically cited a “real and immediate risk to her life” that existed at the time of Smith’s discharge. This suggests a failure to adequately assess and address her ongoing needs despite clear warning signs. Details regarding the nature of the risk and the specific actions or inactions that constituted neglect were not immediately available, but the coroner’s ruling indicates a serious breach in the trust's duty of care.

EPUT has a history of scrutiny regarding its mental health services. This ruling adds to concerns about patient safety and the quality of care provided within the trust's facilities. Representatives from EPUT have not yet issued a formal response to the coroner’s findings, but the trust is expected to conduct an internal review into the circumstances surrounding Abbi Smith’s death. Further investigations and potential legal action are anticipated as a result of this ruling.