Richard Newman died of natural causes at Northgate Hospital

Richard Newman died Northgate Hospital in Great Yarmouth last year after he was found “unresponsive” in his bed. 

In a statement read out in court from his parents, Dick and Jean Newman, the couple said they had been “overwhelmed” with the number of people who attended his funeral and shared condolences. 

The court heard how Mr Newman had been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder - a chronic mental ill health condition – in 2019. 

Following his diagnosis, he had become stable and “handled lockdown well”.  

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Mr Newman was eventually able to move out of his parents' home and into supporting housing at Astley Cooper Place in Great Yarmouth in July 2021. 

Despite receiving “excellent care” during his time there, his mental health began to deteriorate again.  

He was also struggling with weight gain and sleep apnea. 

He was admitted to Northgate Hospital on June 14 over fears he was relapsing. 

On June 17, he was found “unresponsive” during morning rounds, and - despite the efforts of staff and paramedics - he died. 

Norfolk Coroner's Court at County Hall, Norwich

The inquest at Norfolk Coroner’s Court, Norwich, took place this month on Friday, June 8 and was led by assistant coroner Simon Milburn. He shared a tribute from Mr Newman’s parents.

“He was a happy child with a warm, kind and caring nature who loved spending time with his family,” it read. 

“His kindness remained a constant in his life. 

“He had a full life, despite his challenges.” 

Mr Newman had been a member of St John’s Ambulance and Martham’s Light of Life Baptist Church, a career for the elderly, and was well travelled. He also performed the keyboard at care homes across the country. 

Mr Milburn concluded that Richard John Curtis Newton (b. August 31, 1983) died from natural causes.