The family of a student who committed suicide at her parents' home after saying she was raped by a fellow undergraduate has slammed the university for failing her.
Hannah Stubbs, a 22-year-old physiotherapy student at Keele University, fell into a "deep depression" following the attack, which left her needing medical treatment.
The student did not return to her course following the attack, as the person alleged to have raped Hannah was still studying there.
Hannah Stubbs was a student at Keele University
Hannah's grandfather Peter Stubbs told the Sunday Times: "I was in business and if something had occurred on the factory floor the person involved would be suspended while an investigation was carried out. I am at a loss to understand why that did not happen at Keele.
"If it had, Hannah might have returned to her course and still be alive today."
Peter added he believed the attack was "the sole reason" for his granddaughter's depression which led to her death, and accused the university of "inadequate" support.
Hannah's mother Amanda announced her daughter's death on Facebook on 2 September in an emotional post.
A university spokesman said: "We were deeply upset to learn of [Hannah’s] tragic death. The university offers a comprehensive support service to its students and its priority lies with their welfare. These matters are without exception sensitive and confidential and we cannot comment further on particular cases and allegations."
A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "Since we were made aware of an allegation of a rape, specially trained officers have been conducting an investigation into the incident.
"This included referring Hannah for counselling support whilst the investigation progressed.
"A suspect was questioned by detectives and a file was compiled for consideration by the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision.
"A report on the circumstances of Hannah’s death will be made for Her Majesty’s Coroner."
See Also:
- Young People Waiting More Than Three Years For Mental Health Help In 'Creaking' System
- 'University Life Contributed To My Depression'
- Thousands More Students Seeking Counselling For Depression, As Universities Slash Funding
- 'People Still Think Depression Is For Emos And Goths'
- Mental Health Stigma Stops Students Seeking Help
Useful websites and helplines:
- Samaritans, open 24 hours a day, on 08457 90 90 90
- Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393
- Get Connected is a free advice service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994; email: help@getconnected.org.uk or visit the website getconnected.org.uk
- Young Minds offers information to young people about mental health and emotional wellbeing
- HopeLine runs a confidential advice helpline if you are a young person at risk of suicide or are worried about a young person at risk of suicide. Mon-Fri 10-5pmand 7pm-10pm. Weekends 2pm-5pm on 0800 068 41 41
- HeadMeds - a straight-talking website on mental health medication