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University graduate took his own life after struggling to find first 'proper job'

His father, Simon told the inquest, James had a tendency to become hyper-fixated on things and had developed an interest in air pistols and modifying them, including, it is thought - the one involved in his death.

[A manufacturing tycoon described the horrifying moment his troubled son killed himself]

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A manufacturing tycoon described the horrifying moment his troubled son killed himself(Image: Facebook)

A 25-year-old man took his own life after struggling to find his first 'proper job', an inquest heard.

James Keeping suffered increasing mental health difficulties in the months leading up to his death, and had seen a doctor where he admitted he was having suicidal thoughts. But, later sadly died at the family farm in Duns Tew, near Bicester, on February 15.

An inquest at Oxford Coroners Court heard James had struggled to find meaningful employment after graduating from university in 2024. In a post on LinkedIn, he sought help finding work and wrote: I know I dont have a long CV yet, but Im willing, motivated, and not afraid to get stuck in. Ive shown I can adapt and persevere, whether that was working on earthquake relief efforts in Nepal or supporting conservation diving projects in Mexico.

[James and his father sought help to find him a job on Linkedin ]

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James and his father sought help to find him a job on Linkedin (Image: LinkedIn)

Those experiences taught me to stay grounded, stay curious, and never take opportunities for granted. More than anything, Im looking for a role where I can learn, contribute, and grow. If youre hiring, or if youre happy to share any advice with someone just starting out, Id genuinely appreciate it.

Shortly before his sons tragic death, James father, Simon, who previously ran jet wash firm, Karcher for 20 years, also appealed for help on LinkedIn. He said: Its tough for young people to get that first proper job. Call it nepotism, but I would love to give my son James that break. If you wouldnt mind sharing with your networks I know he and I would really appreciate it.

The inquest heard James achieved A-levels in politics, economics and drama. He later graduated from Newcastle University with a degree in marketing and management in 2024.

His dad said James had a tendency to become hyper-fixated on things and had developed an interest in air pistols and modifying them, including, it is thought - the one involved in his death. Simon told the court his son had previously been a member of a shooting club where he held a shotgun licence. However, he gave up the licence.

On the day before his death, Valentines Day, James spent the day with his girlfriend, Iesha Jennings, who had known him for five years. The pair went out together before returning to the family home, where they stayed up talking into the early hours.

Lesha said: We got back to his and we stayed up talking about how he was feeling until about 4am.

The following day, James continued drinking before he and his dad took Iesha back to her home. Still upset on their return, he became argumentative and bemoaned being unemployed.

His girlfriend, Iesha Jennings, told the inquest in a statement: It was clear his mental health was spiralling. He said life was s***. He said how hard it was.

Toxicology reports showed he had 234mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood at the time of his death, nearly three times the drink-drive limit. Coroner Nicholas Graham said he could not record a verdict of suicide, but could also not record one of accidental death. Instead, he delivered a narrative verdict.

He said: There is insufficient evidence to conclude that he intended to take his own life.

For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.

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