Malcolm Livingstone, a military veteran and former pallbearer for Princess Diana, tragically died homeless in Norfolk.
Who was Malcolm Livingstone?
Livingstone, who also served as a footman for the late Queen, found himself living on the streets of King’s Lynn due to alcoholism and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite seeking emergency accommodation during the pandemic, a mix-up in the system prevented him from receiving the help he desperately needed. As a result, he passed away from hypothermia.
Livingstone’s body was discovered in the churchyard of St John’s church on November 16, 2021. He had approached a local night shelter for assistance a few days earlier but was unable to secure a room.
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Due to administrative errors and missed opportunities between the local council and homelessness organizations, Livingstone was left without proper shelter.
The inquest into his death revealed that he should have been eligible for emergency accommodation under the government’s ‘Everyone In’ initiative, which aimed to house rough sleepers during the pandemic. However, the system failed him, and he tragically succumbed to the elements.
Malcolm Livingstone had a remarkable background, having served as a pallbearer for Princess Diana and an RAF sniper in Iraq. However, his experiences in the military, coupled with personal struggles and alcohol abuse, led him down a difficult path.
His parents described him as a caring and kind individual who often prioritized the well-being of others. However, Livingstone failed to care for himself and lost sight of his own worth, ultimately ending up on the streets.
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The agencies involved in his case acknowledged the shortcomings and missed opportunities that led to his tragic fate. Livingstone’s story highlights the need for improved coordination and communication between service providers to ensure vulnerable individuals receive the support they require.
Malcolm Livingstone’s untimely death serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by military veterans and the importance of providing comprehensive support for their well-being.