The heartbroken mum of a 12-year-old who died last year has spoken out as she buys flowers instead of birthday presents.
Semina Halliwell died on June 12, 2021, after spending four nights in hospital, with the year seven pupil at Stanley High School in Southport taking her own life after an interview with police, mum Rachel claims. The 12-year-old girl claimed she was raped by an older boy who she said had groomed her over Snapchat.
Rachel has now spoken out again as she remembers her daughter for the second year on her birthday, where she will be taking flowers to her grave instead of handing over gifts and a cake. Speaking to the ECHO, Rachel emotionally said that she is still "angry" and heartbroken she will never see her daughter grow up.
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She said: "It's really difficult. I've struggled all week. She would have been 14. I should be giving her gifts and sorting out her birthday party but instead, I'm putting flowers on her grave.
"That's all I've got. I've got nothing left, I'll never have another photo of her again and I'll never see her grow up."
Rachel also told the ECHO that it is likely Semina's inquest will be held at the beginning of next year where she will "say exactly what really happened".
She added: "The inquest is really important because we get to say exactly what really happened. People really don't know the truth about what happened.
"If people had just done their jobs correctly she would really still be here. If the truth doesn't come out I will make sure it does. She was an innocent 12-year-old girl and she should still be here.
"She should be here, really excited for her birthday, but she isn't. I can't explain the feeling and the hurt knowing that I'll never get to see her grow up. I'm really angry towards the people who are paid to look after us."
Merseyside Police was approached for comment. The force told the ECHO earlier this year: "The matter is currently being considered by the Sefton, Knowsley and St Helens coroner and as such it is not appropriate for Merseyside Police to comment on any of the substantive issues raised at this time, as we would not wish to prejudice the coronial investigation. However, we have, and are, co-operating fully with the coroner in this matter."
“A formal complaint relating to the police investigation has been received and the concerns expressed are being investigated by the force’s Professional Standards Department. We have informed the Independent Office for Police Conduct and are keeping them updated."
Sefton Coroner's Office declined to comment.
Helplines and support groups
The following are helplines and support networks for people to talk to, mostly listed on the NHS Choices website
- Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you're feeling, or if you're worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
- CALM Campaign Against Living Miserably (0800 58 58 58) is a leading movement against suicide. It runs a UK helpline and webchat from 5pm to midnight 365 days a year for anyone who has hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support.
- PANDAS (0808 1961 776) runs a free helpline and offers a support service for people who may be suffering with perinatal mental illness, including prenatal (antenatal) and postnatal depression plus support for their family or network.
- Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won't show up on your phone bill.
- PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is an organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
- Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
- Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts.
- Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying.
Amparo provides emotional and practical support for anyone who has been affected by a suicide. This includes dealing with police and coroners; helping with media enquiries; preparing for and attending an inquest and helping to access other, appropriate, local support services. Call 0330 088 9255 or visit www.amparo.org.uk for more details.
- Hub of Hope is the UK’s most comprehensive national mental health support database. Download the free app, visit hubofhope.co.uk or text HOPE to 85258 to find relevant services near you.
- Young Persons Advisory Service – Providing mental health and emotional wellbeing services for Liverpool’s children, young people and families. tel: 0151 707 1025 email: support@ypas.org.uk
- Paul's Place - providing free counselling and group sessions to anyone living in Merseyside who has lost a family member or friend to suicide. Tel: 0151 226 0696 or email: paulsplace@beaconcounsellingtrust.co.uk
The Martin Gallier Project - offering face to face support for individuals considering suicide and their families. Opening hours 9.30-16.30, 7 days a week. Tel: 0151 644 0294 email: triage@gallierhouse.co.uk
James' Place - supports men over 18 who are experiencing a suicidal crisis by providing quick access to therapy and support. Call 0151 303 5757 from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 5.30pm or visit https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/
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