A council has urged people worried about paying their tax bill to seek help after a woman died from an overdose after running up a big bill.
Celeste Sutherland-Pollitt, 40, of Old Road West, Gravesend, was discovered at home by her mother Jane who thought she was in a deep sleep.
DS Andy Lambert told the inquest that Mrs Pollitt rushed to find a neighbour after lifting her daughter’s arm and seeing it drop.
Ms Sutherland-Pollitt had taken prescription drugs after a bout of depression. She moved in with her mother after the break-up of her relationship.
DS Andy Lambert told the inquest that Ms Sutherland-Pollitt was also depressed after owing £1,400 in council tax.
She was found dead on October 16. Mr Lambert said that it was up to the coroner to decide whether her death was either caused by a deliberate overdose or was as a mistake.
North Kent Coroner Roger Hatch recorded an open verdict.
Her mother Jane said after the hearing: “She was loved by everybody.”
A council spokesman strongly urged anyone with fears over unpaid taxes to contact the council.
He said: “We know how depressing and debilitating it can be and we have advice and counselling on hand to help.”