Coroners Officer

The Coroner's Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the HM Senior Coroner in their statutory duty to investigate sudden, unexplained, or violent deaths, and deaths that occur in state detention. This involves a wide range of duties, from the initial reporting of deaths to assisting with inquests, ensuring that all necessary information is gathered to determine the cause of death and contributing to public safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Primary responsibility To undertake the judicial orders of the Coroner and assist HM Senior Coroner, Area and Assistant Coroners in fulfilling their statutory duty with regards to the investigation and case management of unknown, violent, sudden, in custody or otherwise in state detention, and unnatural deaths from initial referral to the end of the investigation. Initial Investigation and Enquiries: Receive reports of deaths from police, medical professionals, and members of the public. Conduct initial enquiries to gather information about the deceased, their medical history, and the circumstances surrounding their death. Liaise with families of the deceased with sensitivity and empathy, providing clear information about the coronial process. Request and review medical records, police reports, and other relevant documentation. Identify cases requiring post-mortem examination and arrange for this to be conducted. Liaise with pathologists, police, and other agencies to ensure a comprehensive investigation. To record, assess and investigate any reports of potential Treasure as directed by the Coroner. Preparation for Inquests: Prepare and collate all documentation required for inquests, including witness statements, medical reports, and police files. Identify and contact relevant witnesses, ensuring their attendance at inquests as required. Assist the Coroner and the Head of Service in the preparation of inquest files and ensure all legal requirements are met. Inquest Support: Attend openings, pre inquest reviews and inquests, providing administrative and logistical support to the Coroner. Assist in the smooth running of court proceedings, including managing exhibits and preparing the court. Provide support to bereaved families attending inquests. Liaison and Communication: Maintain effective communication channels with bereaved families, offering support and keeping them informed throughout the coronial process. Work collaboratively with a wide range of external agencies, including police forces, NHS trusts, general practitioners, funeral directors, local authorities, and other governmental departments. Respond to enquiries from the public and professional bodies regarding coronial matters. To work closely with mortuary staff and bereaved family members to ensure pathological specimens, samples and organs are preserved, analysed and disposed of as necessary according to the requirements of the family and the Human Tissue Act. Administration and Record Keeping: Manage a personal caseload, assess and evaluate cases and gather evidence required by the Coroner including statements, reports and social and medical history to enable the effective investigation and progression of investigations and inquests. Maintain accurate and detailed electronic and hard copy records of all cases, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations. Manage and organise electronic and hard copy coronial files efficiently. Prepare and issue official documents such as Acknowledgment of Death forms and Burial Orders. Utilise bespoke coronial case management systems.