02 Apr Inquest jury finds neglect in self-inflicted death of Lajos Mandrik

Gold Jennings represented relatives of Lajos Mandrik in inquest proceedings touching on his death at West London Coroner’s Court, 23 March – 1 April 2026.

Lajos, aged 37, died in September 2023 whilst detained under the Mental Health Act. At the time of his death, he was in the care of South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust at Tolworth Hospital.

Lajos was acutely unwell and his care plan required observations to be completed by staff at least four times per hour. On the day of his death no checks were completed in a 3-hour window during which he tragically died.

The inquest jury concluded that Lajos’ preventable suicide was contributed to by neglect. Assistant Coroner Mr Richard Furniss has indicated that he will issue a Prevention of Future Deaths report highlighting ongoing concerns around the adequacy of observations of patients being cared for by the Trust.

Lajos’ family were represented by Robert Hamill and Anya Draycott-Kapp of Gold Jennings, and barrister Jack Boswell of Matrix Chambers.

For further enquiries or to discuss representation following a death in similar circumstances, please contact Robert Hamill on 0208 445 9268 or robert@goldjennings.co.uk.