‘Ruth had big ideas’: girl who died in psychiatric care was failed by system, say parents

The article summarizes the tragic case of Ruth Szymankiewicz, a 14-year-old girl who died while under the care of a privately run psychiatric hospital, Huntercombe. The inquest found that Ruth, described as a loving, sporty, and bright girl with big ideas, was "unlawfully killed" and received "little, if any, therapeutic care" at the hospital. The article highlights the failures of the system in providing adequate care for Ruth, as expressed by her parents, Kate and Mark. It also includes information on various suicide prevention and eating disorder support hotlines and resources available in different countries, emphasizing the importance of access to mental health services. The article aims to raise awareness about the shortcomings in the care provided to vulnerable individuals, like Ruth, and the need for a more comprehensive and effective system to support those struggling with mental health issues.