Inquest following the death of Christopher Michael Barratt (deceased)

Press Release
02 December 2011

The Coroner is conducting an Inquest into the death of Christopher Michael Barratt, a 49 years old dentist from Ringwood. The Inquest has lasted two days and the Coroner will give his verdict on 22 December at 10.00am.

Christopher, who suffered from bi-polar disorder, took his own life on 28 June 2010. The purpose of the Inquest is to investigate the circumstances leading up to his tragic death.

Christopher had been under the care of the New Forest Community Mental Health Team for some time. On the day he died, the mental health team had made arrangements for him to be admitted to Woodhaven Hospital. Between making the decision to admit Christopher in the morning and confirming the arrangements for his admission in the afternoon Christopher was left alone at home, during which time he hanged himself.

Christopher left behind a wife, a daughter and a son. Although it has been a very difficult time, the family are grateful to the Coroner for investigating carefully what happened on the day in question and hope that lessons can be learned to prevent similar tragedies occurring in the future. They have no further comment to make at this time and ask that their privacy be respected.

Muiris Lyons, partner and Adam Flacks both of Stewarts Law LLP act on behalf of the family, and Mr Nathan Tavares of Outer Temple Chambers appeared on behalf of the family at the Inquest.