12 November 2024
This is a media release by Ison Harrison, reshared by INQUEST
Assistant Coroner for West Yorkshire (Western District) Angela Brocklehurst
West Yorkshire (Western District) Coroner’s Court
An inquest into the tragic suicide of 17-year-old Henry Grierson opened on 8 October at Bradford Coroner’s Court and resumed at 2pm on 31 October 2024.
Henry was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at the age of 10. However, after being discharged from mental health services, the medication prescribed for his condition caused intolerable side effects. No alternative treatment or support was offered, leading Henry to begin to self-medicate during his teenage years.
He took his own life on 21 April 2024, following a series of events that were explored during the inquest.
Henry had previously been under the care of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) but was discharged, leaving him with limited mental health support. Evidence was heard from Huddersfield New College about its safeguarding procedures and its policies for children with mental health difficulties.
Henry had been permanently excluded from the college shortly before his death. In evidence, staff from the college apologised directly about the manner the exclusion was communicated, citing it as a learning opportunity. Later, after legal advice, the college corresponded via their solicitor with the coroner to make clear that lessons had been learned.
The process surrounding informing students of their exclusion was amended as a consequence of a review undertaken after Henry Grierson’s death. A letter from the school’s legal representatives was sent to ensure the coroner was aware that the manner in which a student who may be excluded is informed was amended to ensure agreement is sought with the student’s parents or carers.
The college also completed a comprehensive review of its approach to managing student disciplinary issues, confirming processes and procedures around managing student discipline and communication in relation to permanent exclusions have been reviewed. However, there was still a failure to ensure relevant information about Henry’s mental health was obtained from other educational institutions, CAMHS, and recovery services when he moved from Heckmondwike Grammar School to the College.
West Yorkshire police, who had contact with Henry, also gave evidence when he was stopped for driving his father’s car illegally the night before he died. After impounding the car, police officers allowed Henry to make his own way home alone, following which he wrote suicide letters to family members before leaving to take his own life later that morning.
Family Calls for Reform and Accountability
Henry’s family is calling for urgent reform and greater accountability, underscoring gaps in the education and mental health systems that they believe contributed to Henry’s struggles. Citing shortcomings in Huddersfield New College’s duty of care to Henry, a student diagnosed with ADHD, the family remains devastated by the loss of a talented, bright young man and is committed to ensuring that no other family endures a similar tragedy.
The inquest detailed Henry’s journey through his education with ADHD, the challenges he faced adapting to rigid educational and social expectations, and the eventual strain of disciplinary actions.
“Despite being aware of his ADHD diagnosis, the college primarily focused on disciplinary rather than supportive approaches, culminating in his permanent exclusion shortly before his death.”
Henry’s family believes that this exclusion had a devastating emotional impact on him, as he was already navigating the challenges of ADHD, including low self-esteem and impulsivity. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can significantly impact a child’s daily functioning—and while it is not always classified as a special needs condition in the traditional sense, it does present unique challenges that may require additional support and accommodations in educational settings.
It is well established that ADHD is closely linked to mental health challenges and carries a significantly increased risk of suicidality. Henry’s internet search history revealed a timeline suggesting intense feelings of hopelessness and research into suicidality that directly correlated with the timings of his suspension and subsequent permanent exclusion.
His family believes that a more attentive, compassionate, and coordinated approach, with mental health support at the forefront, could have made a significant, life-saving difference. "We feel that Henry was let down by systems that didn’t fully understand or support him,” said Ruth Grierson, Henry’s mother. “Exclusion should have been a last resort; what Henry really needed was understanding and proactive support to help him thrive. Colleges need to do better with their understanding of neurodivergent vulnerable students."
Prevention of Future Deaths Report Issued to Huddersfield New College
Following the inquest conclusions, the coroner confirmed she would be issuing a Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) Report, also known as a Regulation 28 Report. Coroners have a duty to take action to prevent future deaths where:
1. Acoroner has been conducting an investigation into a person’s death;
2. Anything revealed by the investigation gives rise to a concern that circumstances creating a risk of other deaths will occur, or will continue to exist in the future; and
3. In the coroner’s opinion, action is required to prevent the continuation of such circumstances or eliminate or reduce the risk of future death created by such circumstances.
The Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) Report will be issued to Huddersfield New College, noting the coroner’s concerns in relation to the failure of adequate information exchange between Huddersfield New College, CAMHS, and recovery services. The college has 56 days to clarify what action has been taken or is proposed to be taken.
The family said, “We hope the college will take the concerns seriously and implement meaningful changes to protect future students. No family should have to experience this level of heartbreak due to institutional failings.”
Henry’s Talent and Passion for Sport
Henry’s father, Michael, also reflected on his son’s life, sharing how proud they were of his accomplishments, especially in sports. Henry was a skilled athlete with a passion for rugby, recently selected to represent Scotland in the U19 European Rugby League Championships.
His family remembers him as a gifted and driven young man with boundless potential and a bright future full of kindness, wit, and zest for life.
Educational Reform for Neurodivergent Students to Prevent Future Tragedies
The Grierson family is advocating for mandatory neurodiversity and mental health training for educational staff across all educational institutions. They believe that improved awareness and understanding of ADHD will equip staff to understand the unique needs of neurodivergent students.
“The need for policy reform is critical, and now is the time to prioritise mental health and safeguard neurodivergent students from punitive measures,” Ruth added. “We want to see policy changes that foster resilience rather than contributing to feelings of alienation.”
“Henry was a talented, remarkable young man, but he struggled in an environment that treated his needs as problems rather than seeing him as a student who needed understanding,” said Ruth.
“For Henry, this lack of understanding only compounded his struggles, leaving him feeling isolated and rejected. Huddersfield New College must be held accountable for their handling of Henry’s situation. We want to see reform that prioritises mental health and provides neurodivergent students with support that keeps them engaged and included,” Ruth added. “As a family, we are committed to ensuring that Henry’s legacy inspires change.”
Honouring Henry’s Legacy by Advocating for Change
Henry’s family, including his siblings Naomi, Thomas, and Jacob, are committed to transforming this tragedy into positive action in his memory. They have raised funds and are working toward establishing a charity to advocate for better ADHD awareness and mental health support across the education sector.
The Griersons have also launched henrygrierson.org, a website dedicated to raising awareness of ADHD which will provide resources to support families and young people navigating similar challenges.
“The Grierson family invites anyone who believes in supporting vulnerable students to visit henrygrierson.org, register their support, share their story on social media, and join this vital movement for educational reform,” Ruth continued. “Henry had so much potential, deserved more than what he received, and we want to ensure no other family faces this loss. We hope Henry’s story will drive real change within schools and colleges, with neurodivergent students seen as individuals whose unique strengths are nurtured and their wellbeing protected. It’s time for a compassionate, educated approach that truly supports every student.”
For further information, please contact:
Jenny Croston of Ison Harrison Solicitors
[email protected]
0113 2845000
Ruth Grierson, mother of Henry Grierson
07762733910
[email protected]
www.henrygrierson.org
Henry Grierson
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12 November 2024
This is a media release by Ison Harrison, reshared by INQUEST
Assistant Coroner for West Yorkshire (Western District) Angela Brocklehurst
West Yorkshire (Western District) Coroner’s Court
An inquest into the tragic suicide of 17-year-old Henry Grierson opened on 8 October at Bradford Coroner’s Court and resumed at 2pm on 31 October 2024.
Henry was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at the age of 10. However, after being discharged from mental health services, the medication prescribed for his condition caused intolerable side effects. No alternative treatment or support was offered, leading Henry to begin to self-medicate during his teenage years.
He took his own life on 21 April 2024, following a series of events that were explored during the inquest.
Henry had previously been under the care of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) but was discharged, leaving him with limited mental health support. Evidence was heard from Huddersfield New College about its safeguarding procedures and its policies for children with mental health difficulties.
Henry had been permanently excluded from the college shortly before his death. In evidence, staff from the college apologised directly about the manner the exclusion was communicated, citing it as a learning opportunity. Later, after legal advice, the college corresponded via their solicitor with the coroner to make clear that lessons had been learned.
The process surrounding informing students of their exclusion was amended as a consequence of a review undertaken after Henry Grierson’s death. A letter from the school’s legal representatives was sent to ensure the coroner was aware that the manner in which a student who may be excluded is informed was amended to ensure agreement is sought with the student’s parents or carers.
The college also completed a comprehensive review of its approach to managing student disciplinary issues, confirming processes and procedures around managing student discipline and communication in relation to permanent exclusions have been reviewed. However, there was still a failure to ensure relevant information about Henry’s mental health was obtained from other educational institutions, CAMHS, and recovery services when he moved from Heckmondwike Grammar School to the College.
West Yorkshire police, who had contact with Henry, also gave evidence when he was stopped for driving his father’s car illegally the night before he died. After impounding the car, police officers allowed Henry to make his own way home alone, following which he wrote suicide letters to family members before leaving to take his own life later that morning.
Family Calls for Reform and Accountability
Henry’s family is calling for urgent reform and greater accountability, underscoring gaps in the education and mental health systems that they believe contributed to Henry’s struggles. Citing shortcomings in Huddersfield New College’s duty of care to Henry, a student diagnosed with ADHD, the family remains devastated by the loss of a talented, bright young man and is committed to ensuring that no other family endures a similar tragedy.
The inquest detailed Henry’s journey through his education with ADHD, the challenges he faced adapting to rigid educational and social expectations, and the eventual strain of disciplinary actions.
“Despite being aware of his ADHD diagnosis, the college primarily focused on disciplinary rather than supportive approaches, culminating in his permanent exclusion shortly before his death.”
Henry’s family believes that this exclusion had a devastating emotional impact on him, as he was already navigating the challenges of ADHD, including low self-esteem and impulsivity. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can significantly impact a child’s daily functioning—and while it is not always classified as a special needs condition in the traditional sense, it does present unique challenges that may require additional support and accommodations in educational settings.
It is well established that ADHD is closely linked to mental health challenges and carries a significantly increased risk of suicidality. Henry’s internet search history revealed a timeline suggesting intense feelings of hopelessness and research into suicidality that directly correlated with the timings of his suspension and subsequent permanent exclusion.
His family believes that a more attentive, compassionate, and coordinated approach, with mental health support at the forefront, could have made a significant, life-saving difference. "We feel that Henry was let down by systems that didn’t fully understand or support him,” said Ruth Grierson, Henry’s mother. “Exclusion should have been a last resort; what Henry really needed was understanding and proactive support to help him thrive. Colleges need to do better with their understanding of neurodivergent vulnerable students."
Prevention of Future Deaths Report Issued to Huddersfield New College
Following the inquest conclusions, the coroner confirmed she would be issuing a Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) Report, also known as a Regulation 28 Report. Coroners have a duty to take action to prevent future deaths where:
1. Acoroner has been conducting an investigation into a person’s death;
2. Anything revealed by the investigation gives rise to a concern that circumstances creating a risk of other deaths will occur, or will continue to exist in the future; and
3. In the coroner’s opinion, action is required to prevent the continuation of such circumstances or eliminate or reduce the risk of future death created by such circumstances.
The Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) Report will be issued to Huddersfield New College, noting the coroner’s concerns in relation to the failure of adequate information exchange between Huddersfield New College, CAMHS, and recovery services. The college has 56 days to clarify what action has been taken or is proposed to be taken.
The family said, “We hope the college will take the concerns seriously and implement meaningful changes to protect future students. No family should have to experience this level of heartbreak due to institutional failings.”
Henry’s Talent and Passion for Sport
Henry’s father, Michael, also reflected on his son’s life, sharing how proud they were of his accomplishments, especially in sports. Henry was a skilled athlete with a passion for rugby, recently selected to represent Scotland in the U19 European Rugby League Championships.
His family remembers him as a gifted and driven young man with boundless potential and a bright future full of kindness, wit, and zest for life.
Educational Reform for Neurodivergent Students to Prevent Future Tragedies
The Grierson family is advocating for mandatory neurodiversity and mental health training for educational staff across all educational institutions. They believe that improved awareness and understanding of ADHD will equip staff to understand the unique needs of neurodivergent students.
“The need for policy reform is critical, and now is the time to prioritise mental health and safeguard neurodivergent students from punitive measures,” Ruth added. “We want to see policy changes that foster resilience rather than contributing to feelings of alienation.”
“Henry was a talented, remarkable young man, but he struggled in an environment that treated his needs as problems rather than seeing him as a student who needed understanding,” said Ruth.
“For Henry, this lack of understanding only compounded his struggles, leaving him feeling isolated and rejected. Huddersfield New College must be held accountable for their handling of Henry’s situation. We want to see reform that prioritises mental health and provides neurodivergent students with support that keeps them engaged and included,” Ruth added. “As a family, we are committed to ensuring that Henry’s legacy inspires change.”
Honouring Henry’s Legacy by Advocating for Change
Henry’s family, including his siblings Naomi, Thomas, and Jacob, are committed to transforming this tragedy into positive action in his memory. They have raised funds and are working toward establishing a charity to advocate for better ADHD awareness and mental health support across the education sector.
The Griersons have also launched henrygrierson.org, a website dedicated to raising awareness of ADHD which will provide resources to support families and young people navigating similar challenges.
“The Grierson family invites anyone who believes in supporting vulnerable students to visit henrygrierson.org, register their support, share their story on social media, and join this vital movement for educational reform,” Ruth continued. “Henry had so much potential, deserved more than what he received, and we want to ensure no other family faces this loss. We hope Henry’s story will drive real change within schools and colleges, with neurodivergent students seen as individuals whose unique strengths are nurtured and their wellbeing protected. It’s time for a compassionate, educated approach that truly supports every student.”
For further information, please contact:
Jenny Croston of Ison Harrison Solicitors
[email protected]
0113 2845000
Ruth Grierson, mother of Henry Grierson
07762733910
[email protected]
www.henrygrierson.org
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