Woman Jailed Three Years for Attempted Murder of Mother in Doncaster Hospital

Susan Hardwick, a 65-year-old woman with cerebral palsy and likely learning disabilities, was sentenced to three years in prison for attempting to murder her 89-year-old mother, Joan Hardwick, at Doncaster Royal Infirmary. Hardwick attacked her mother by smothering her with pillows and using a small knife, but the victim was not critically ill and was being prepared for discharge to a care home. The attack occurred after Hardwick mistakenly believed her mother was being sent back to a hospital where she had previously received poor treatment. The court accepted that Hardwick's mental disability and rigid thought process may have led her to think her actions were merciful, though prosecutors argued the act was more about frustration. Medical staff intervened promptly, and police arrested Hardwick soon after the incident. The judge described the case as difficult and troubling, noting no evidence that Joan Hardwick wished to die and highlighting the daughter's long-standing dependence on her mother.