Probe into death of woman found on stairwell in street

A fatal accident inquiry (FAI) is to be held after a woman was found dead on a stairwell on a street in Glasgow weeks after being admitted to a mental health ward.

Sarah Aitken, 59, died on Balmoral Street on 15 August 2022, weeks after being admitted to the Rutherford Ward at Gartnavel Royal Hospital in June 2022.

The inquiry will explore the circumstances of her death, including the adequacy of risk assessment, care planning, and adherence to relevant policies by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, as well as whether opportunities were missed to prevent her death.

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland's death investigation authority, said the circumstances of the death caused "serious public concern".

FAIs are inquisitorial in nature, and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame.

A preliminary hearing has been set for 22 July at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

Andy Shanks from COPFS said: "The Lord Advocate considers that the tragic death of Sarah Aitken occurred in circumstances giving rise to serious public concern and as such a discretionary fatal accident inquiry should be held.

"The lodging of the first notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.

"Sarah's family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress."