The mother of a transgender boy who died in a mental health facility is calling for a public inquiry

Charlie Millers, 17, from Stretford, Greater Manchester, died of a brain injury five days after he was found unconscious in the Junction 17 wing of Prestwich Hospital in December 2020.

An inquest at Rochdale Coroners’ Court found that there were failings by multiple agencies that led to his death and that the boy did not intend to end his life.

The inquest jury found that the lack of individual medical care and the decision not to place Charlie under constant observation on the ward probably contributed to his death.

His mother, Sam Millers, has repeatedly called for more support to keep him safe.

She told Sky News: “All these failures… it bothers me that I’ll never get a chance to say I’m sorry. He was in danger of dying and as a mother I told him I didn’t think he would be here for Christmas.”

Charlie was a talented artist who loved football and animals, but his mental health was affected from an early age. He was diagnosed with ADHD and was severely bullied after publicly identifying as a boy from the age of 12.

The court heard that Charlie was receiving support from Trafford Council’s children’s services because he was in a cycle of self-harm and attempted suicide. He was admitted to Junction 17 due to his deteriorating mental health. Charlie was the third young man to die in hospital in less than a year.

His mother said: “Three deaths in nine months due to the same failings of care is really worrying and we will be pushing for a public inquiry.”