The heartbroken mother of Jamie Cole, a 25-year-old autistic man who died after falling from a fifth-floor balcony during a trip to Tenerife, has voiced her anguish and confusion over why her son never returned home.
Jamie had traveled to Tenerife with a private care company, Lifestyle (also known as Accomplish), accompanied by his carer, Lousha Rees. After a disagreement with Ms. Rees in a restaurant over the bill, Jamie stormed out and sent distressing messages to his carers expressing suicidal intent. One message read, “I am going to jump now. Can you tell everyone I love them including my mum.” The carer’s manager responded by telling him to “stop being silly,” but tragically, Jamie was later found dead at the hotel having fallen from the balcony.
During the inquest at Avon Coroner’s Court, coroner Dr. Peter Harrowing described the carers’ responses as “inappropriate,” though he did not find evidence of gross negligence. The dispute began after Jamie referred to Ms. Rees as his girlfriend, which she found unsettling. Following the quarrel, Ms. Rees sent Jamie a text saying, “I’m not chasing after you. Acting like a 12 year old. It’s totally out of order,” to which Jamie replied, “I am heading home.” Later, Jamie was found deceased with multiple injuries caused by the fall.
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In a powerful statement read at the inquest, Jamie’s mother, Martine Cole, described him as “joyful, bubbly, open and honest,” emphasizing the known triggers related to his autism and the importance of careful support and risk assessment. She expressed her hope that the inquest would remind care providers of their critical responsibilities.
Dr. Harrowing noted Jamie had a history of suicidal thoughts but stated no immediate risk was known to the care company. He acknowledged the company Lifestyle had since implemented recommendations to address the issues raised.
Martine’s pain is enduring: “We have lost our precious Jamie forever, but I believe he should still be with us.”