AN MP has called on Theresa May to apologise to the family of a woman who took her own life after she was sanctioned by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

Stockton South MP Dr Paul Williams raised Jodie Whiting's tragic story during Prime Minister's Questions.

The Independent Case Examiner found multiple and significant failings by the DWP and it was found that there has been five separate missed opportunities to take into account Jodey’s mental health.

Just before her death, Jodey missed a health assessment as a result of her health problems and her benefits were stopped.

In response to Dr Williams’ demands, the PM offered her sympathy to Jodey’s mother, Joy Dove, and an assurance that the DWP were looking at her case to make sure that this kind of tragedy is never able to happen again.

Dr Williams said: “The Independent Case Examiner has found multiple and significant failings by the DWP including five missed opportunities to identify Jodey’s mental health problems and properly safeguard her.

“Her family are asking for an apology and to make sure that this can never happen again to anyone else. Can the Prime Minister offer this?”

In response, the Prime Minister said: “He’s absolutely right to raise this appalling case that took place and my thoughts and sympathies are with Miss Whiting’s family at this time.

“As he said, what’s been identified is that there were mistakes in handling her case and it’s absolutely right that the Department has apologised for their failings and they are providing compensation to the family. That, of course, can never bring Miss Whiting back.

“The point he made is that we need to learn from this case and that is why absolutely the Department is looking at that case to make sure that we never see these sorts of failing happening again and leading to such a tragic consequence.”

Speaking after the event, Joy Dove said: "It's been a long time coming but I'm glad that the Prime Minister has finally accepted that Jodey was not treated fairly and that the Government systems let her down in the worst possible way. I've worked with Dr Paul on this and we've chipped away and chipped away and both me and my family are pleased that he was able to get answers in Parliament.

"This isn't the end. I want to know that this won't happen again to anyone else and I know Dr Paul feels the same. I'll continue fighting for justice for Jodey."