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17th February 2012
OTTERY ST MARY: Coroner calls for review of respite services following drowning case
A CORONER has called for a review of respite services after an 11-year-old boy from Ottery St Mary drowned in a care centre swimming pool.
Adrian Pullman, who had learning difficulties, was found in the pool at Little Farm, Southleigh, nearly nine-years- ago. Coroner Dr Elizabeth Earland said in a narrative verdict that drowning was the cause of his death. Lifeways Children and Family Care Services was, at the time, working on a Devon County Council contract. The service has subsequently closed down. At the inquest, which took place at County Hall, Exeter, Dr Earland called for a review of the services offered in short break situations for children with special needs. A council spokesman said: “We would like to express again our sympathy to Adrian’s parents and family. “We welcome the coroner’s acknowledgement that there have been major improvements made in respite care provision since Adrian’s tragic death. “The county council, with our partner organisations, will be responding to the coroner’s report in due course.” The accident, which happened on August 10th 2003, took place just hours after Adrian’s father handed him over to carers. He was airlifted to hospital following the incident but later pronounced dead. The inquest was opened and adjourned later that month, to finally reopen last week. PICTURE: Adrian Pullman who died while in respite care 
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