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09/02/2012

The parents of a woman who was let out of a mental health unit and a day later took her own life have won a long legal battle to get the authorities to admit their failings.

The Supreme Court has ruled the NHS in Stockport failed in its duty of care, when a woman with mental health problems committed suicide seven years ago. 24 year old Melanie Rabone suffered from depression and tried to take her own life twice in March 2005. She was voluntarily admitted to hospital but asked for a period of home leave in April that year. Shortly after returning home she killed herself. Melanie's parents sued the trust for negligence for allowing her home. Her parents also brought a claim under the Human Rights Act - claiming that the Pennine Care Trust had caused Melanie's death and failed to conduct an effective investigation into her death. They won the negligence claim but lost on the Human Rights point; a decision which they appealed and have now won at the Supreme Court in a landmark case. Phil speaks to Melanie's father and to the family solicitor.
Plus after Fabio Capello's resignation as England manager Phil speaks to England legend, John Barnes.

2 hours

Last on

Thu 9 Feb 2012 10:00

Broadcast

  • Thu 9 Feb 2012 10:00