Nicola Lacey

I am Hugh Gregory Mark Bricknell, Senior Coroner for County of Herefordshire

On 13 January 2023 I commenced an investigation into the death of Nicola Jane LACEY. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 12 June 2024. The conclusion of the inquest was suicide.

Nicola Jane Lacey lived alone in a large property in rural Herefordshire. She had recently separated from a partner. On the 30th December 2022, the deceased did not attend work and did not call anyone. This raised concern. As a consequence a member of staff who worked with the deceased attended her address. There was no answer at the address and therefore the Police were called. Police attended the scene and forced entry. The Police established that Nicola Jane Lacey had died. A note identified the deceased’s intentions. Nicola Jane Lacey had a responsible position within Healthcare.

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to conce rn. In  my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows . (1) Procedures should be clear and known to employers concerning the appropriate disclosure of a colleagues ongoing mental health difficulties for the benefit of both the individual concerned and the safety of the wider public.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you, Robert Mackie have the power to take such action.