Gareth Roberts, a nurse from south Wales, died from COVID-19 on 11 April 2020. It was suspected that he contracted it at work due to inadequate personal protective equipment.
His wife Linda, a former nurse, sought legal advice from the RCN. We stood by her side and represented her at her husband's inquest. There, in a landmark case, a coroner concluded that Gareth died of industrial disease.
Watch as Linda remembers her husband as "a hero", talks about the representation she received at inquest and recommends that others get in touch with the RCN if they need legal advice.
We also hear from RCN lawyer Nicole O'Reilly, who reflects on the case and advises on the legal support the RCN can offer members at inquests.
More information
The RCN's policy is that we would expect the employer to represent a member at an inquest/inquiry. In certain exceptional circumstances, the RCN may provide support. However, this will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Read RCN guidance on inquests and fatal accident inquiries and read about RCN legal support.
Find out more about the UK COVID-19 Public Inquiry.
