AN NHS Trust has admitted failings after the death of teenage patient Connor Sparrowhawk.

Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust appeared at Banbury Magistrates Court today to enter a guilty plea for a single count of breaching health and safety regulations following their patients death.

Mr Sparrowhawk, 18, was found dead on July 4, 2013 after drowning in a bathtub at Slade House, Oxford.

He had suffered an epileptic fit and an earlier inquest rule that 'neglect' had played a role in his death.

Speaking at the hearing District Judge Tim Pattinson told family members gathered that he had the 'deepest sympathies' for what had been a 'tragic' case.

Paul Spencer, defending for the Trust, told the court: "This is a deeply tragic case that should never have happened.

"The loss to his family must be enormous."

Following the hearing Julie Dawes, Interim Chief Executive of Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust said the Trust was 'truly sorry' for what happened to Connor.

She said: "Connor’s death whilst under our care was entirely preventable and today we have pleaded guilty to the charges brought against the Trust by the Health and Safety Executive.

"Connor’s loss continues to have a devastating impact on his family and we are truly sorry that we didn’t keep him safe.

"The effect of Connor’s death has been far reaching and whilst it in no way compensates for the loss his family has suffered, it has led to significant changes and improvements in the Trust.

"There have been times when our actions unintentionally added to the distress of Connor’s family.

"However as a result of the changes we have made we hope that all families and service users will now experience a more compassionate approach from Southern Health.

"Connor is a constant reminder why we must continue to do everything we can to improve the quality and safety of our services.”

The Trust will be sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on October 12.

The hearing, which is a provisional date only, is expected to last a full day.