STAFF at a Hampshire secure unit battled to save the life of a patient who suffered breathing problems in his room.

Jason Frampton called out for help after struggling to breathe in his room at Southfield Hospital in Totton.

But despite the efforts of nurses and paramedics who carried out CPR he died.

Winchester Coroner’s Court heard how the 47-year-old who died of pneumonia suffered from physical and mental health issues.

The inquest heard he had schizophrenia and an antisocial personality disorder. He was also obese, had diabetes and breathing difficulties.

Mr Frampton told staff he felt unwell on April 28, but according to nurses at the hospital his condition improved and was well enough to go out on an escorted trip three days later.

When he returned from the trip he struggled to breathe and called out to staff who arrived at his room.

He then collapsed and staff attempted CPR and called an ambulance but paramedics were unable to revive him.

The court heard he often would refuse medical intervention to treat his diabetes according to mental health nurse Colin Pretlove who described him as “difficult”.

Mr Pretlove also said staff believed that Mr Frampton did not have pneumonia before his death as he often struggled with breathing due to his weight.

Pathologist Dr Vidhi Bhargava said Mr Frampton’s diabetes was a contributing factor in the death as the condition meant he had lower immunity to infections.

Coroner Grahame Short recorded a verdict of death due to natural causes.

He said: “He did not believe he had an unhealthy lifestyle - it was something that hampered he staff and their ability to care for him and the treatment he received.

"I am satisfied that the treatment and care he had was appropriate and not lacking.”

Mr Frampton’s mother Gabrielle Frampton described her son as “intelligent” and was unhappy with his treatment.

The coroner’s verdict and a review into the death by Dr Kevin O’Shea on behalf of Southern said there were no failings.