Under cross-examination from barrister Dr Cian Murphy, who was representing Mr Kay’s family, Mr Wigley admitted that Mersey Care’s standard procedure – to specify the level of care necessary and allocate a named, lead social worker – had not been followed.

The inquest heard that Mr Kay had taken an overdose of antidepressants and paracetamol at the end of April, shortly before injuring himself with a knife.

On Tuesday, the inquest heard Mr Kay had “gone downhill” after having to have his pet dog put to sleep after it had became aggressive and attacked his friend.

At the Royal Liverpool Hospital, a decision was made that he did not need to be detained.

Mental health nurse Meghan McGee was asked repeatedly why she had not triggered the process to have him detained under the Mental Health Act, despite knowing he had attempted to take his own life 26 years ago.

She said that during a three-hour conversation Mr Kay had told her he had no intention to act upon his suicidal thoughts, and wanted help and support.

Ms McGee said: “You could tell he was interested in people, his eyes lit up like crystals when he spoke of his pride in journalism, supporting the underdog and fighting for justice.”

She added she had been left with “no concerns” that Mr Kay presented an immediate risk to himself.

“As he stood up to leave he asked me for a hug and said, ‘I’ll see you in Allerton Road Tesco when I’m better’.”