The family believes that timely intervention from social services could have changed the outcome of her situation.

An inquest ruled her cause of death as 'unascertained,' with indications that she had not been seen since at least November 1, 2017.

The coroner concluded that while there were clear signs of Winham's vulnerability, it was not possible to determine if these missed opportunities directly contributed to her death.

In response to the tragedy, Surrey County Council acknowledged the need for improved support and committed to making significant changes to prevent similar incidents.

Laura Winham, a 41-year-old woman, was found dead in her flat in Woking, Surrey, on May 24, 2021, after being unaccounted for over three years.

Her family last saw her in 2009, and communication ceased in 2014 as they believed their contact worsened her mental health.

Winham's family expressed devastation over her death, emphasizing their struggles to support her through her mental health issues, which began in her mid-20s.

They criticized social services for failing to support Winham, describing her as a vulnerable person left to fend for herself.

The family's solicitor stated that had adult social care acted sooner, Winham might still be alive.

In October 2017, Surrey Police raised concerns about Winham's well-being and referred her case to adult social services, but the investigation was deemed perfunctory.

Coroner Karen Henderson noted 'lost opportunities' for intervention by multiple agencies, including Woking Borough Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.

Diary entries from Winham revealed her struggles with food insecurity and feelings of isolation, indicating she had gone months without proper food.