Nottinghamshire Police have been urged to rethink their policies around mental health support after a suspect took his life while under investigation. Paul Taylor was found dead at his home in Clifton on January 3 last year, a fortnight after learning he had been criminally charged.

The 58-year-old had been interviewed voluntarily before being under investigation for a two-year period. An inquest into his death found he died by suicide after overdosing on prescription medication.

Following the hearing at Nottingham Council House on December 17, a coroner said he was concerned more people could die unless action is taken by Nottinghamshire Police. A spokesperson for the force said they were aware of the issues and were carrying out a review of its policies.

Mr Taylor was not arrested at the start of the investigation and voluntarily interviewed, which was "appropriate" according to assistant coroner Nathanael Hartley. "Within a fortnight of him being made aware that criminal charges had been authorised, he intentionally took a large quantity of prescription medication and was found deceased at his home in Holbrook Court, Clifton," he said.

Under current policies, arrested suspects are required to be referred to a mental health nurse, while welfare assessments are also conducted by the officer in charge of the investigation. However, when a suspect is interviewed on a voluntary basis there is no requirement for police to refer them, meaning checks solely rely on the leading officer.

Writing a Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) report, Mr Hartley said: "In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken. In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you have the power to take such action."

A spokesperson for Nottinghamshire Police said: “We were aware of the inquest, and we have received the PFD from the coroner, which we will now be reviewing and providing a response to the coroner within 56 days as is our duty.”

Where to find help

The NHS Choices website lists the following helplines and support networks for people to talk to.

  • Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you're feeling, or if you're worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at [email protected].
  • Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won't show up on your phone bill.
  • PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is an organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
  • Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity based in England providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
  • Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts.
  • Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying.