Family Blames Sussex Police for Mental Health Training Failures After Worthing Man’s Death

The family of Ryan Ouslem, who died in his Worthing flat in August 2022, claims his life could have been saved if Sussex Police had better mental health training.

Ouslem, 34, took his own life just days after officers visited his home following a concerning social media post. The attending officer failed to follow expected protocols, raising concerns in a coroner’s report.

Assistant Coroner Robert Simpson’s report highlighted gaps in Sussex Police’s mental health training, pointing out that the officer did not fully understand her legal powers under the Mental Health Act. Ouslem’s mother and her partner believe that had the officer acted differently, Ouslem might still be alive. The report also criticised the officer’s lack of suicide awareness and failure to consult a mental health nurse.

Sussex Police has since stated its commitment to reviewing the coroner’s report and making necessary improvements. The force added that new protocols, such as the “Right Care, Right Person” initiative, aim to ensure those in mental health crises receive appropriate professional help.