A woman’s remains were found in her flat three years after death. Family blames social services for failing her.
Laura was 41. Her family asked police to check on her because they were worried about her safety. A court said her death cause was unclear and they could not pinpoint when she died. Her calendar had dates crossed off until late 2017.
The coroner said agencies missed chances to help Laura. These agencies included Woking Council, New Vision Homes, and the Department for Work and Pensions. Surrey County Council’s social care team was also involved.
Adult social care contacted Laura after a police referral. They offered advice about food banks via letter but did not visit her home at all. The coroner called their investigation careless, though she could not say if this caused her death.
Laura’s family believes a visit would have saved her. They feel she was not seen as important, as her own diary showed she struggled. Her family last saw her in 2009, and social media contact stopped in 2014 when she asked for no contact then.
Her family thought they were respecting her wishes, as Laura’s sister said contact worsened her mental health. The family checked if Laura’s car was there, believing professionals would care for her. They feel this did not happen.
Laura’s family sought professional help and feel support from those who loved her was lost. They think the system failed a vulnerable person and urge that Laura’s death should inspire change.
Surrey County Council apologized for the lack of support and is working to improve their services. The coroner said Woking Council should have flagged Laura. The DWP should have been more helpful with her benefits.
Laura did not want a medical check-up for benefits. The coroner could not confirm if this contributed to her death. Surrey County Council has been asked for their response.