A Birmingham couple has initiated a campaign for improved mental health safeguarding following the tragic loss of their son, Tyran Jones, who died at the age of 30. The family described their heartbreak after receiving the news of Tyran's death on Mother's Day, March 30, stating that mental health patients are being inadequately supported by the National Health Service (NHS).

Tyran had faced ongoing mental health struggles for over ten years, attributed in part to his autism, and had made several previous attempts on his life. His parents, Tina and Steve Jones, expressed their belief that the health system had failed their son in responding to his pleas for help. They recounted being informed of Tyran’s death while they were at their caravan in Worcester by their other son, Jamie, who revealed that Tyran had been found dead at his flat.

Tina recounted her son's long history of mental health challenges, starting from the age of 14. She noted that Tyran had been sectioned at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on November 18 of the previous year but was discharged in December. Despite his deterioration in condition, Tina stated that the system did not adequately address his needs during his final days. "He had been admitted to a general medical ward and not a mental health one," Tina explained.

In the days leading up to his death, Tyran was sent to The Oleaster, a mental health hospital in Edgbaston, following a referral from the Longbridge Mental Health crisis team. His family alleged that although he was invited to come for an assessment, he was not admitted and instead placed in a corridor. His father, Steve, reportedly begged staff to admit him but to no avail. Tina claimed that Tyran had expressed a need to be sectioned under the Mental Health Act, but was instead directed to visit A&E for help.

Reflecting on their loss, Tina said, “I wasn’t surprised when it happened, despite our grief. My son had the warnings but he never had the help. The health system is failing them. He should have got the support." Steve added that the family had experienced a “decade of absolute hell” trying to assist Tyran and were left feeling unsupported, frequently communicating with him in distress.

Tyran’s siblings and friends fondly remembered him as a warm and fun-loving individual whose mental health decline had significantly altered his personality. Leon, the partner of Tyran’s sister, described him as a "gentle soul" who was well-liked by those who knew him.

In light of their son's death, the Jones family has started a petition on Change.org, demanding stricter mental health safeguarding measures. They believe that systemic failures led to Tyran’s demise, citing inadequate responses from social services, the South Birmingham Crisis Team, and the healthcare institutions he interacted with.

The Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust has acknowledged Tyran's tragic passing. A spokesperson conveyed condolences to his family and mentioned that an investigation into past contacts with Tyran had been initiated, pledging full cooperation with any forthcoming inquest.

University Hospitals Birmingham, the NHS body managing the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, also offered their sympathies, stating they are ready to support the family in addressing any queries they may have.

As the Jones family continues to advocate for change in the mental health support system, they hope their efforts can prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Source: Noah Wire Services