Callum Wong

Department of Health and Social Care, 33 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0EU

I am Peter Straker, Assistant coroner, for the coroner area of Northern District of Greater London

On the 31st August 2022 I opened an investigation touching the death of Callum Wong who was 17 years old when he died. I opened an inquest on the 23rd September 2022. The inquest concluded on the 27th February 2023. The conclusion of the inquest was “Callum Wong killed himself ”, the medical cause of death was 1a Asphixia, 1b Hanging (suspension) and under paragraph 2 Mental Health Issues and Asthma.

On the 27th August 2022 Callum Wong was found having hanged himself Mr Wong had had suicidal thoughts in the past but having been supported by his family, overcame them. When Mr Wong had suicidal thoughts again, patient confidentiality issues resulted in those from whom he sought help, not informing his family.

The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows.

1. Consideration for exceptions to patient confidentiality in cases of mental illhealth, where informing third parties of a patient’s condition may result in crucial non-medical support.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you [AND/OR your organisation] have the power to take such action.