Family of man who died in Wellingborough hotel thank those who helped him

The family have thanks people like Wendy Steele (pictured) who helped Jonathan before his death.

Jonathan Upex, 46, was found dead in the Euro Hotel one week ago on New Year’s Eve. He had been put up in the hotel by East Northamptonshire Council after sleeping on the streets of Wellingborough and also in the Rushden night shelter.

Speaking today, his mother Sheila Upex said: “We would like to thank all the people that have helped him in the past, although he was let down by some agencies.

He is at peace now.”

Jonathan had long term mental health problems.

Mrs Upex said Jonathan, who had suffered from long term ill health and mental health problems had left the family home in December 2018.

He was given help the week before his death by Wendy Steele, who is involved with Wellingborough Homeless Forum and helps the town’s rough sleepers, regularly taking them food and warm clothing.

She had taken him a roast meal on Christmas day after he had attended the Christmas church service. She had tried to visit him again on Boxing Day and the 27th, but after being unable to contact him she called social services and the police.

Northamptonshire Police decided not to force entry to his hotel room as they did not think there was sufficient grounds to do so. He was found four days later by a staff member from the Euro hotel and a social worker. His death is being treated as a sudden death and police say there will not be a criminal investigation.

Wendy said she thinks that Jonathan’s death was preventable and more should have been done to help him.