In 2021, 67-year-old Shirley Nunn and her disabled son Steven, 50, were found dead in their Middlesbrough home. A new review suggests this tragic outcome could have been prevented.
Shirley had cared for Steven full-time since he suffered brain damage at age 11. He had cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and severe learning difficulties. After Shirley was diagnosed with terminal cancer in October 2021, she worried deeply about what would happen to Steven after her death.
Shirley’s husband had died of cancer two years earlier, leaving her alone in her caregiving role. Though adult social care provided some support, Shirley carried most of the burden. A Domestic Homicide Review revealed she was depressed and had suicidal thoughts in her final weeks.
She was discharged from the hospital for end-of-life care at home. Two days later—on the second anniversary of her husband’s death—both she and Steven were found dead.
The review criticized the lack of mental health support: “Her mental health should have been focused on as much as her physical health.” Shirley’s love for her son was clear, but her isolation may have led to tragedy. This case raises urgent questions about the support we give to society’s most vulnerable caregivers.
