Home / Health / Teen Dies in Mental Health Unit: Probe Launched
Teen Dies in Mental Health Unit: Probe Launched
1 May
Summary
- Teenager Lucy Curtis died on New Year's Day 2024 at a mental health unit.
- The NHS unit was temporarily closed due to safety concerns following her death.
- A criminal investigation is underway by the UK's healthcare watchdog.
A criminal investigation is currently underway by the UK's healthcare watchdog, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), into the death of 17-year-old Lucy Curtis. Lucy tragically died on New Year's Day 2024 after an incident at the Riverside Adolescent Unit, located at Blackberry Hill Hospital in Bristol.
Following internal reviews that failed to provide assurance of safe care, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) temporarily closed the unit weeks after Lucy's death. A full inquest into her death is scheduled for June. AWP has pledged full cooperation with the CQC's investigation and expressed condolences to Lucy's family, committing to swift improvements.
The Riverside Adolescent Unit provided specialized care for young people with severe mental health difficulties. Patients have since been transferred to other West Country units. AWP is planning a new specialist service in Bristol and exploring community-based and private care options, aiming for high-quality, accessible services.
