A mum has said she will never give up fighting for her daughter after waiting more than two years for the inquest into her death.
Rachel Halliwell is still waiting for answers surrounding the death of her daughter Semina. The Stanley High School student from Southport took 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. Monday, June 12, will mark the second anniversary of Semina’s death, and Rachel wants not just answers but also closure over her daughter's death.
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Rachel told the ECHO: “You know it has been two years and still we have had no hearing and I can’t move on. I will never be able to move forward and start grieving until I get justice for Semina.
“It is hard for a parent to stay silent for so long until certain processes have been completed. I find it frustrating and very difficult to do.”
A pre-inquest hearing has been scheduled for July 19 and Rachel hopes the inquest will take place later in the year. Last week Southport MP Damien Moore took the opportunity to pay tribute to Semina during PMQs. Mr Moore said that Semina was "let down by the system".
Addressing the House of Commons, Mr Moore said: "Semina Halliwell, a 12-year-old girl in my constituency suffered an horrific ordeal, she tragically then went on to take her own life, she was let down by the system. This week is the second anniversary of her death.”
Rachel said: “The power was taken out of my hands. I'm there to protect my daughter and do my part as a parent. For me, I will get closure when every single person has heard the truth.
"That is my job and what I strive for. I am determined to make sure that Semina gets her justice."
Sefton Council declined to comment on the upcoming inquest. Merseyside Police has previously told the ECHO: "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."
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