Chemistry student dies suddenly in 13th suspected suicide at Bristol University in three years

Family pay tribute to Maria Stancliffe-Cook following her death aged 20

Maria Stancliffe-Cook was a chemistry undergraduate at the University of Bristol (SWNS)

A chemistry undergraduate is believed to have become the 13th student at the University of Bristol to take their own life in the past three years.

Maria Stancliffe-Cook, who died suddenly in the city on 1 August, was described by her family in a statement as a “beautiful, intelligent girl”.

The 20-year-old’s death was confirmed by a spokesperson at the Russell Group university, which has come under fire following a spate of suspected suicides.

“We have received the very sad news that Maria Stancliffe-Cook, an undergraduate student studying Chemistry at the University of Bristol, has died,” the university said.

“There is nothing harder for our community than the death of one of our students.

“We have offered our support to Maria’s family and friends, and our thoughts and sympathies are with them all.

Avon and Somerset Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious and had been referred to the coroner.

“Police were called to a concern for welfare incident at an address in the Kingsdown area of Bristol on Thursday, 1 August,” the force said in a statement.

“Sadly a 20-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.”

A statement released on behalf of Maria’s family said: “Maria was a beautiful, intelligent girl who was much loved and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

“She was a hard-working and diligent student. Words cannot express how saddened we are by her unexpected absence from our lives.”

Last year the university introduced a new suicide prevention scheme, which informs parents if there are serious concerns about students’ mental health.

It has also begun offering students lessons in happiness that will count towards their degrees.

“We encourage any members of our community who are affected by this news to make sure they contact university wellbeing services for help, even if they are away from Bristol for the summer holidays,” the university added.

“They should also seek support from their own friends or family.”

You can contact the Samaritans by calling them for free from any phone on 116 123, emailing jo@samaritans.org or visiting www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch.