The family of a Darlington man who was neglected by hospital staff before he took his own life on the train tracks have expressed their worry that more deaths could happen unless changes are made. Matthew Gale, 37, died on the train tracks on Mother’s Day last year. At the time, he was an inpatient at West Park Hospital sectioned under the Mental Health Act.
This week, an inquest jury at Crook Coroners' Court unanimously found that neglect by hospital staff had contributed to his death, after the wrong forms were completed, and Matthew's mother, Sue, was not told that she must stay with him at all times whilst he was on leave. Whilst on a period of leave with his mother, Sue Gale, Matthew was able to take himself to a train station, where he tragically died. Now, Matthew's mother and twin brother James Gale, have told The Northern Echo that they do not believe that West Park Hospital "have learned from Matthew's death".
Sue, a retired nurse, said: "As a family, we always knew that West Park failed. Just common sense would tell you that. So, on that balance, I am pleased with the verdict, but it's never going to bring back my son.
"It needn't have happened. It's another needless death on the hands of the trust." James, a firefighter, added: "The verdict confirmed the fact that there had been failures and neglect in Matthew's care.
If their policies and procedures were followed, he wouldn't have committed suicide. "The trust never formally apologised. They've never so had the.
