Coroner warns of gaps in mental health and addiction services

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 19:02 · Archive

A Norfolk coroner has raised concerns about the lack of unified services for people struggling with mental illness and drug addiction following the death of Nathan Docwra.

Nathan Docwra, 43, of Great Yarmouth, died after struggling with mental health problems and drug addiction. An inquest at Norfolk Coroner's Court heard evidence of his deteriorating mental health, complicated by substance dependency, seizures and grief from losing both his parents and his best friend.

Docwra's father died following battles with prostate, lung and bone cancer, followed six months later by his mother, aged 65, from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The inquest heard that Docwra had a longstanding history of drug dependency, but his cocaine use escalated dramatically following his bereavement and as his mental health worsened.

Following the inquest, a Norfolk coroner raised concerns about the lack of a unified service for people struggling with both mental illness and drug addiction. The coroner plans to prepare a Government report on the issue. Docwra's family paid tribute to him as their 'bright shining star', saying he was a father, grandfather, brother, partner and friend whose kindness and generosity touched those around him.

How it is being reported

• Heartbreak of family's 'bright shining star' prompts coroner's warning over servicesGreat Yarmouth man Nathan Docwra’s death prompts a Norfolk coroner’s warning over gaps in mental health and addiction services, with a Government report planned.Eastern Daily Press · 14 Oct, 17:03
• Heartbreak of family's 'bright shining star' prompts coroner's warning over servicesGreat Yarmouth man Nathan Docwra’s death prompts a Norfolk coroner’s warning over gaps in mental health and addiction services, with a Government report planned.Norwich Evening News · 14 Oct, 17:03

In this story: Nathan Docwra · Norfolk · Great Yarmouth · Norfolk Coroner's Court

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