Tributes have been paid to a “beautiful soul” 18-year-old who died from suicide after battling depression, an inquest heard.
Hope Shaw died at her home in Accrington on March 25 after a history of ADHD, autism, anxiety and depression.
A statement from Hope’s mum, Kelly, read out by the coroner, Richard Taylor, at Preston Coroners Court, described her as a “very caring and selfless girl who was straight-talking with a beautiful soul.”
Kelly last spoke to Hope at 10.30am and said that there was no indication she was struggling with her mental health.
When Kelly returned at 12.30pm, she heard music coming from her daughter’s room, which she considered completely normal. However, hours later, after receiving no response when she called out, she broke into the room and found her daughter hanged.
Given the circumstances, the family asked for no witnesses to attend and also requested not to attend the inquest themselves.
A statement from Hope’s GP, Graham Smith, explained how Hope had been referred to the mental health team and was diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder and trialled medication.
He also explained that she didn’t want to take any therapy and reopen problems from the past, which included an attempted overdose in January 2024.
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A statement from Detective Inspector Louise Breaks said: “Kelly confirmed that her daughter had shown no signs of being down and trying to harm herself that day. After the attempted overdose, her daughter had promised her that it wouldn’t happen again.
“There had been a number of overdoses, but not as severe as the first one. The last 12 months, she had been self-harming and confirmed she didn’t want to work with social care and refused to go.”
Mr Taylor also outlined that there was no indication that anything like this was going to happen and that there was no explanation or note left.
He also explained that police examined her phone and nothing of relevance was found.
The coroner returned the conclusion of suicide.
For confidential support, Samaritans can be contacted for free around the clock 365 days a year on 116 123.
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