A three-week inquest set at Beaconsfield Coroner’s Court will investigate the death of 22-year-old mum, Fern Foster, who passed away on July 8, 2020.
Fern, an autistic literature lover, was tragically found dead after being informed by Buckinghamshire County Council that her six-month-old baby could be placed for adoption.
Fern’s child had gone into foster care almost a month after she was born, in January 2020, after the support her family believe she was entitled to was not put into place.
Fern was under the care of the local mental health team when she became pregnant.
Shortly after Fern found out that she was pregnant, Buckinghamshire Children’s Services became involved.
The inquest will examine the care and support provided to Fern, while she was pregnant and after she had her baby, by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust (OHNFT) and Buckinghamshire County Council social services department.
The inquest will also consider the emergency response of paramedics from South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) and Thames Valley Air Ambulance (TVAA) who attended after Fern died.
Fern’s family believe the acts and omissions of public authorities who were required to help Fern, played a significant role in causing her death.
Merry Varney and Caleb Bawdon, solicitors at law firm Leigh Day represent Fern’s father, Kieran Foster, her mother, Dominique Jowett and Fern’s sister, Rowan Foster.
The inquest is expected to conclude on April 18.
Following the conclusion of the inquest, Fern’s family will issue a statement.
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