Police Scotland launches investigation into death of NHS Forth Valley mental health patient in Falkirk

A police investigation has been launched into the death of a young man at an NHS mental health unit in Falkirk.

Jake Llewellyn was 26 years old when he suddenly died at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert in May 2023.

Police Scotland said it had submitted a report to the Procurator Fiscal as it probed the circumstances around the student’s death.

NHS Forth Valley said it was committed to providing high-quality mental health services.

A spokesperson said: “Anyone who requires emergency mental health care is seen by our Mental Health Acute Assessment and Treatment Service (MHAATS) which operates 24/7 from Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

“All new patients receive a comprehensive clinical assessment where risk is assessed by an experienced mental health professional.

“Patients who require an urgent assessment can also be seen by local community mental health and substance use services.

“If, following assessment, it is not clinically appropriate for someone to be admitted to hospital, they would receive an individual care plan with details of follow-up arrangements and advice on what to do if their condition worsens.

“Significant Adverse Event Reviews (SAERs) are carried out in a range of situations in line with national guidance.

“This includes where an individual has died in unexpected circumstances.”

NHS Forth Valley said families are involved in these reviews and have the opportunity to ask questions and examine their findings.

“The outcomes of SAERs are also shared with local staff to share learning and support improvements. We would also cooperate fully with any police investigations or other external inquiries,” a spokesperson added.

“Despite a national shortage of mental health professionals, our community mental health services and Acute Assessment and Treatment Service have very few nursing vacancies and low staff turnover.

“We continue to invest in staff training and development and work with local service users and their families to further improve their experience.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “On Thursday, May 18 2023 police received a report of the sudden death of a 26-year-old man within Forth Valley Royal Hospital, which took place the previous evening.

“An investigation into the circumstances around his death is ongoing.

“A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”