The heartbroken parents of a teenager who took her own life at the age of 13 have paid tribute to their “beautiful” daughter. Mia Holland was found dead in her bedroom by her dad Chris in April. An inquest ruled she died by suicide.
Mum, Laura, said: “Mia was such a gentle, beautiful person. I wish I could show you all of the memories I have of her inside my head. Her laughter was infectious. The crinkle of her nose, her giggle and how it made everyone smile and laugh with her. She was my Christmas baby – the best gift I ever had.”
She described her daughter as “the kindest person” who used her savings to buy a pillow, quilt, sandwich and water to give to a homeless man.
Laura said “well-liked” Mia’s friends were “extra special” to her, adding: “[She] had such a big heart and wanted to make people proud. She makes me proud every single day.”
Chris said his daughter lit up every room with her big, blue eyes and beaming smile. He said she gave the best hugs and would stop whatever she was doing to give you a “tight squeeze” if you asked for a cuddle.
He added: “Mia was not only my beautiful daughter, but also an amazing sister, cousin and cherished friend to everyone that knew her.”
The grieving father added that, most of all, Mia enjoyed being at home with her family, watching a film or dancing with her siblings.
He added: “I miss you so much. Our hearts are breaking that you’re not here anymore. We talk about you every single day, sharing our beautiful memories of you. I wish you were still here, where you belong with us.”
At the inquest into her death, it emerged Mia had been referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) a number of times.
Dr Asjad Tarar, the safeguarding lead clinician at Lyme Valley Medical Practice, said Mia was seen in June 2023 over concerns at a possible ADHD diagnosis.
He told the inquest Mia’s parents had reported outbursts of anger becoming more frequent, with “behavioural issues” at home and school.
The inquest also heard Mia had previous referrals to CAMHS, including for self-harm and anxiety.
Mia was a pupil at Clayton Hall Academy until July last year. She then moved to Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent.
Leaders from both schools told the inquest they put measures in place to support Mia, who Clayton Hall Academy headteacher, Caty Reid, described as a well-liked, hardworking pupil, according to the Stoke Sentinel.
Coroner Fiona Gingell said: “Mia was an intelligent young lady. Some level of planning went into this and she knew what the outcome of her actions would be.
“She left a ‘goodbye note’ and waited until a time she wouldn’t be disturbed. This was an impulsive yet deliberate decision. Her previous incidents of self-harm were handled entirely appropriately.
“There were no indications Mia would have taken this drastic action, despite her feeling low that evening and the day before. Nobody could have foreseen this outcome.”
Ms Gingell added: “Mia had a very large and loving family. It is clear she was well-liked by everyone she met. Her death at such a young age is tragic.”
Whatever you’re going through, you can call the Samaritans free at any time from any phone on 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day. You can also email jo@samaritans.org
Mind can be contacted on 0300 123 3393, at mind.org.uk or by email at info@mind.org.uk
The charity offers information on a range of mental health problems and available support. Lines are open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays).
Childline can also be contacted on 0800 1111 or at childline.org.uk