Story perspectives

Tragic Inquest Reveals Mental Health Failings in Family Case

12/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

In 2022, a Portsmouth inquest revealed failings in mental health support for Chris and Ruth Stone-Houghton.
Coroner Rachel Spearing found Chris Stone-Houghton’s discharge from a psychiatric hospital unsafe due to inadequate risk assessment.
The couple's children expressed concern about lack of support for their father.
Chris Stone-Houghton suffered a psychotic episode that led to Ruth Stone-Houghton’s death and his suicide.
The family criticized mental health services for lacking necessary interventions.

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Story summary

In 2022, a Portsmouth inquest revealed failings in mental health support for Chris and Ruth Stone-Houghton.
Coroner Rachel Spearing found Chris Stone-Houghton’s discharge from a psychiatric hospital unsafe due to inadequate risk assessment.
The couple's children expressed concern about lack of support for their father.
Chris Stone-Houghton suffered a psychotic episode that led to Ruth Stone-Houghton’s death and his suicide.
The family criticized mental health services for lacking necessary interventions.