Summary
A coroner concluded that Jodey Whiting, a disabled woman from Stockton-on-Tees, died by suicide in 2017 after her mental health declined when her benefits were wrongly stopped. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) expressed regret over errors made in her case, which led to her losing financial support.
Key Facts
- Jodey Whiting was found dead in 2017, two weeks after being declared fit to work despite missing an assessment due to hospitalization with pneumonia.
- The coroner found that the decision to stop her benefits worsened her mental health, leading to her suicide.
- Whiting had chronic health issues, including a spine condition and a brain cyst, and suffered from chronic pain and mental health problems.
- Whiting's benefits, including housing and council tax support, were cut after she was labeled as fit to work.
- Her mother, Joy Dove, pursued a legal battle for a second inquest, highlighting the DWP's role in the case.
- An Independent Case Examiner's report found errors in the process and suggested the DWP compensate the family.
- The DWP admitted errors and expressed regret, stating a need for a more compassionate approach.
