Boy, 22, Dies at Mental Health Hospital After Morphine Overdose

Will Giles, a 22-year-old former school head boy, tragically passed away at Bushey Fields Hospital in Dudley. An inquest revealed he died from morphine toxicity after consuming an unprescribed lethal dose of the opioid. His family has issued a heartfelt plea, stating their lives have been torn apart and urging the relevant NHS trust to learn from this devastating event.

The young man had battled mental health issues for ten years, experiencing a significant decline following the deaths of his grandmother and father in late 2022. He was admitted to the hospital just four weeks before his death, with his mother expressing concerns he was experiencing a 'living nightmare' and bringing illicit substances into the facility.

Forensic toxicologists confirmed a 'potentially lethal' level of morphine in Mr Giles' blood, with no evidence of a prescription or prior use. While other prescribed and non-prescribed drugs also contributed, the unprescribed morphine was identified as the primary cause of death. The inquest is ongoing, with the trust expected to provide its response.