Patrick Griffin

I am Chris Morris, Area Coroner for Greater Manchester (South).

On 3 September 2025, an inquest was opened by Alison Mutch OBE, Senior Coroner for Greater  Manchester (South) into the death of Patrick Griffin who died at the Stamford Unit, Tameside  Hospital on 17 August 2025, aged 82 years. The investigation concluded with an inquest which I heard on 30 January 2026. The inquest heard medical evidence that Mr Griffin died as a consequence of: 1a) Bronchopneumonia 2) Alzheimer’s Disease At the end of the inquest, I recorded a narrative conclusion, finding that Mr Griffin died in  hospital from Bronchopneumonia having been admitted from a care home as a result of a  number of his basic care needs not being met.

Mr Griffin died on 17 August 2025 at the Stamford Unit, Tameside General Hospital, Ashton- under-Lyne as a consequence of Bronchopneumonia against a background of Alzheimer’s  Disease. Mr Griffin was admitted to Tameside General Hospital from Moss Cottage where he  was receiving residential care on a temporary basis.

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern. 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. Mr Griffin lived with advanced dementia and moved into Moss Cottage on temporary basis on  18 July 2025 to afford his wife and main carer a period of respite. I am concerned that, despite it being recognised that Mr Griffin needed support with dietary and fluid intake, and full assistance with hygiene and personal care, when admitted to hospital on 6 August 2025, he was noted: 1)   To be dehydrated; and 2)   Not to have opened his bowels for 7 days.

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