Joseph Valentine Martin took his own life, the investigating court announced

Joseph Valentine Martin was found dead by police at his home in County Court Road, near St James' End in King's Lynn, on March 8 last year.

An inquest into the death of the former tyre fitter took place at Norfolk Coroner's Court this week, where evidence of the “toxic relationship” was presented.

Christopher Leach, deputy coroner, read several reports from medical and psychiatric professionals.

He said: 'Joe had a long history of self-harm and that history was linked to alcohol and drug abuse and the strained and toxic nature of his relationship with his partner.

“Joe has had multiple appointments with mental health services, including psychiatric assessments which assessed risk of self-harm and suicide, but also identified a number of protective factors, including Joe's family.”

One of these reports was a review of safety incidents compiled by the Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust.

The review gives a brief chronological overview of his work in psychiatric care.

An entry dated July 3, 2022, states: “Stress with Joe's partner has increased.”

“Their relationship is said to have had its ups and downs and was characterized by verbal abuse from their partner.

“He was subjected to some form of emotional or verbal abuse for several years.

“[A month later] There is an allegation of compulsive control.”

According to the evidence, he also sought support, including from substance abuse charity Change Grow Live (CGL).

CGL's report states: “Mr Martin was referred to CGL by a family protection social worker and offered a comprehensive assessment.

“He was assigned to a non-addictive treatment pathway, which consisted of attending some group and individual sessions to address the psychological causes of addiction and coping strategies.”

Norfolk Coroner's Office (Image: Newsquest)

His mother, Michelle Martin, and sister, Leah Martin, appeared in court in Norwich where their statements were read out.

Mrs Martin said: “Their relationship was good at first, but over time it became bad.”

“I’m glad Joe got away and tried to get help and get his life under control. But [his former partner] was always in his thoughts.

“Joe wasn’t perfect, but he cared about the children and [his former partner].

“He would always want her, even if she mistreated him.”

Mrs Martin, who had agreed to look after Mr Martin's children after contacting the social welfare office, also expressed her concerns.

She added: “Joe was a hard-working boy. He loved looking after his family and taking them on days out and holidays.

“He worked long hours, he did it for his family, and when he came home, the arguments started.”

After an autopsy, the cause of death was given as “hanging”.

Summarising the incident, Mr Leach stated that Mr Martin died “because he caught his own neck, his intentions being unknown.”

In her tribute to her son, Mrs Martin added: “Joe was a very lucky boy.

“He helped everyone, was always smiling, laughing and happy. And he loved his work.”