A respected Welsh Labour figure praised by Sir Keir Starmer as a “powerful voice” has died by suicide, an inquest has heard, sending shockwaves through the Senedd and beyond.
Hefin David, who represented Caerphilly in the Welsh Parliament for nearly a decade, was found dead at his home on August 12 last year — just one day before he was due to celebrate his birthday.
Mr David was 47. He leaves behind two daughters and his partner, fellow Senedd member Vikki Howells, who serves as a minister in the Welsh Labour Government.
What the Inquest Revealed
At Gwent Coroner’s Court, senior coroner Caroline Saunders ruled that Mr David had taken his own life by hanging.
She explained that he had been living with reactive depression, driven by mounting pressures in both his personal life and his political career.
The coroner told the court that although Mr David had sought help in the past, he did not reveal the full extent of his struggles to those around him.
His death, she said, followed a downturn in his mental health.
A Private Battle Behind a Public Life
The inquest heard that Mr David first approached his GP in October 2021, when he was prescribed antidepressants and began counselling.
However, after October 2024, he did not seek further medical support.
By the end of May 2025, he had stopped taking his medication altogether — a decision that the coroner said contributed to a decline in his mental wellbeing.
He was found at his home by his sister, who also formally identified him at the scene.
The medical cause of death was recorded as asphyxia due to hanging.
Tributes From the Top of Labour
News of Mr David’s death prompted an outpouring of grief across the Labour movement. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer led tributes, describing him as a tireless advocate for Wales and its communities.
“The whole Labour movement will join me in grieving the loss of Hefin David,” he said.
“He was a powerful voice for the people of Wales and a committed public servant who dedicated his life to ensuring every person and community had the opportunities and support they deserve.”
Sir Keir also spoke of Mr David’s deep pride in Caerphilly, where he was born and lived, adding: “Our hearts are with his family and all those who knew and loved him at this painful time.”
‘A Truly Remarkable Human Being’
Welsh First Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan echoed those sentiments, describing Mr David as “a truly remarkable human being” when addressing the Senedd after his death.
She spoke warmly of his character, saying he had “a heart that loved fiercely,” and offered particular sympathy to his partner, Vikki Howells, the Cynon Valley MS and minister for further and higher education.
“We are extremely saddened by the sudden death of Hefin,” she said.
“He was a much-loved member of the Labour family and served Caerphilly with pride and passion — first as a councillor and then as a Member of the Senedd.”
Remembered as a Communicator and Champion
Baroness Morgan also highlighted Mr David’s natural warmth and enthusiasm, calling him an outstanding communicator who was especially effective when speaking up for his constituents.
“He brought energy and humanity to politics,” she said. “He will be greatly missed.”
A Family’s Heartfelt Words
In a moving statement, Mr David’s family spoke of the love and respect shown since his passing, both from the community he represented and from colleagues he worked with over many years.
They also painted a picture of the man beyond politics — a devoted father to his daughters Caitlin and Holly, a cherished son, brother, uncle and, above all, a soulmate to his partner Vikki.
The family thanked those who had reached out with messages of support and asked for privacy as they continue to grieve.
Where to Find Support
If you or someone you know is struggling, confidential help is available.
You can contact Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org, or access support via www.thecalmzone.net/get-support.
What Happens Next
The loss of Hefin David has reopened conversations across Wales about mental health, the pressures of public life, and the importance of support — even for those who appear strong on the surface.
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