Homelessness may have played a part in the suicide of Darren Docherty, who was found dead in August 2023 just days after leaving HMP Stoke Heath near Market Drayton, a report by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) said.
Docherty had been living in a tent after he was turned away by supported housing providers, and was unable to find emergency accommodation from Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
Darren Docherty had a history of self-harm and mental illness, although the PPO report added there had been no sounds he was contemplating suicide prior to his release.
A number of supported housing providers had declined to accommodate him on release due to a history of substance misuse and his behavior in temporary accommodation previously. The Council was notified prior to his release, and there were two applications made by probation officers for emergency accommodation, although in both cases these were unsuccessful, including one the night before his death.
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This comes after research from The Museum of Homelessness found that in 2024 deaths among the homeless population reached a record high, recording 1,611 deaths. It was a 9% rise on the year before, with the majority of deaths being linked to suicide or drugs.
Mr Docherty was found dead on 10 August, with an inquest confirming he died by suicide, the PPO said.
A spokesperson for HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS) said: “Our thoughts remain with the friends and family of Darren Docherty at this difficult time.
“While the [PPO] made no formal recommendations to HMPPS, we recognise the findings and are working closely with our partners to improve continuity of care for those leaving custody.”
