An inquest has concluded that a 12-year-old girl described as 'incredibly talented' took her own life after successfully concealing the depth of her mental health struggles from her family and professionals.
A Day Out Ends in Tragedy
Laura Louise Spreadbury had spent June 29 last year on a day out with her father, younger sister, and a friend in Great Sankey, Warrington. Later that day, she was found in the bathroom of her family home. Her father, John Spreadbury, performed emergency first aid in a desperate attempt to save her before paramedics arrived.
Laura was rushed to Warrington Hospital, but showed no signs of life. She was confirmed dead at 9.04pm after her parents were given time to be with her, Warrington Coroner's Court heard.
The 'Mask' of a High-Achieving Perfectionist
Recording a conclusion of suicide, area coroner for Cheshire, Victoria Davies, stated: "Laura had experienced mental health difficulties in the previous two years. Laura was very guarded with her feelings and capable of allowing professionals and her family a small insight that she allowed, not her true feelings."
She added: "I'm satisfied this was a deliberate act ... carried out with the intention of ending her life. This is a truly, truly tragic case."
Laura was a high-achieving pupil, having been head girl at her primary school before joining St Gregory's RC High School in Warrington. She was a rugby player for Crosfields ARLFC and a Scout leader. Her father described her as a perfectionist who set incredibly high standards for herself.
He explained a distressing cycle where Laura would self-harm, initially deny it, then stop after speaking with her parents, only for the behaviour to repeat. In March 2025, her GP records revealed she had spoken of suicidal thoughts and not wanting to be alive.
Professional Support and Hidden Hopelessness
Following that GP appointment, an urgent referral was made to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). Laura attended weekly one-hour sessions with cognitive behavioural therapist Deeksha Girish.
Ms Girish reported that Laura had high self-expectations, was self-critical, and experienced low moods that affected her motivation and friendships. Laura said she would 'show up' for the sake of others but struggled to enjoy activities and described feelings of hopelessness.
In a joint statement after the inquest, St Gregory's High School and Warrington Council said: "The school community has been completely devastated since learning about the loss of Laura... she was considered to be a future head pupil. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Laura's family and friends."
If you are affected by the issues in this article, support is available:
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7).
- Childline: For under 19s, call 0800 1111.
- PAPYRUS: For under 35s, call 0800 068 41 41.
- Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 for information and support.
