NHS Lothian mental health care given to woman who took her own life to be investigated

An inquiry is to investigate the mental health care given to a young woman who later took her own life in West Lothian.

Shannon Foy died at her home in Broxburn in May 2021.

The 25-year-old’s death has raised issues of serious public concern and warrants a Fatal Accident Inquiry in the public interest, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said.

The inquiry will focus on the adequacy of the mental health care and treatment provided by NHS Lothian and whether opportunities were missed to prevent her death.

A preliminary hearing will be held at Livingston Sheriff Court on May 19.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry looks to establish what, if any, reasonable precautions could have been taken, and could be implemented in the future, to minimise the risk of future deaths in similar circumstances.

Andy Shanks, of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said: “The Lord Advocate considers that the tragic death of Shannon Foy occurred in circumstances giving rise to serious public concern and as such a discretionary Fatal Accident Inquiry should be held.

“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.

“Shannon’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”