Tragic Death of Rough Sleeper in Hotel

Paul Dono, a well-known figure in the Wolstanton community, was found dead in a hotel room on October 25, 2023, just one day after being offered permanent accommodation. The 46-year-old had previously lived in a tent on Wolstanton Marsh and had battled alcohol and drug addictions since the age of 12. His support worker, Chloe Henshaw, discovered his body at the Travelodge in Trentham while delivering the news of his new living arrangement. An inquest into Dono's death revealed a life marked by substance abuse, with his struggles intensifying in late 2022 and early 2023. Despite his challenges, Dono was beloved by many who sought to help him, often rallying around him with food and support during his difficult times. His parents, Marie and John Raphael, expressed their gratitude to the community for their efforts, describing their son as a "house-proud" individual who took pride in his living space when sober. Assistant coroner Nicholas Walker noted that Dono's death was linked to his long-term alcohol addiction, stating that he had experienced a rapid decline in health leading up to his passing. While there were indications of previous suicide attempts, the medical report did not suggest a deliberate intention to end his life. The coroner emphasized the tragic nature of Dono's story, highlighting the ongoing struggle many face with addiction and the impact of community support.