St Pancras Coroner’s Court

AN inquest into the death of a vulnerable woman that has “huge implications” for Camden Council was adjourned for the second time in five months in a legal “shambles” that heaped more pain on a grieving family.

St Pancras Coroner’s Court heard yesterday (Wednesday) that a crucial council review about its care of Colleen Madden was only “disclosed” to the court and opposing legal teams shortly before the hearing was due to start.

Serious questions are being asked about the build-up to the death of the 31-year-old, who was in need of support following a brain injury, in temporary accommodation in King’s Cross in January last year.

St Pancras assistant coroner Melanie Lee ruled that the inquest should be listed as an Article 2 hearing – when the state may have breached its duty to protect life.

But she said it couldn’t go ahead without lawyers and witnesses taking stock of the newly disclosed information.

Ms Lee said: “The implications for Camden are huge. It is highly critical of Camden. So far the witness statements that have come from Camden do not address the issues. I should not be getting this the Friday before the inquest. I’m not seeing candour from Camden. The criticism of Camden is high.”

A hearing in September had to be adjourned following similar failures by legal teams.

A lawyer representing the family told the court: “One of these words is shambles, that in my submission apply to the London Borough of Camden’s conduct. They have no one to blame but themselves.”

Camden’s barrister had told the court that the situation was “unfortunate”, adding: “I know now you want to hear witnesses’ evidence in relation to the SAR. But the disclosure is complete.”

After the hearing, a Camden Council spokesperson said: “Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Colleen Madden at this difficult time. Camden Council, along with partners and other agencies, will be assisting the coroner as they examine the cause and circumstances relating to Colleen’s death at the inquest. The council will carefully consider the findings of the inquest and work with partners to identify any learning.”