Coroner's Officer

Location: Crick

A law enforcement organisation based in Lancashire is seeking a compassionate, resilient and highly organised individual to join the team as a Coroner's Officer. This rewarding and varied role places you at the heart of the Coroner's Service, supporting HM Coroners in investigating sudden, unexplained, violent or unnatural deaths. You will act as the key liaison between bereaved families, medical professionals, funeral directors, partner agencies and the Coroner's Court, ensuring investigations are conducted professionally, sensitively and efficiently.

As a Coroner's Officer, you will investigate reportable deaths on behalf of HM Coroner, gathering evidence, conducting enquiries, preparing case files and supporting the inquest process from beginning to end. You will communicate with a wide range of stakeholders including families, medical practitioners, pathologists, registrars, legal professionals and partner agencies, ensuring that all relevant information is obtained and that investigations progress smoothly and professionally.

This is an initial contract until 26th March 2027 based in Blackburn with hybrid working available (Operational demand permitting: office-based, court attendance and home working rotation available), the hourly rate for the role is £16.90 per hour via PAYE  holiday pay and benefits. If successful you will need to go through the relevant vetting.

Key Responsibilities Investigate sudden, unexplained, violent and unnatural deaths on behalf of HM Coroner. Attend scenes of death where appropriate and gather relevant evidence and information. Conduct enquiries and interviews with relatives, witnesses and other relevant parties. Prepare accurate, high-quality investigation files and reports for inquest proceedings. Liaise with doctors, hospitals, pathologists and medical professionals to obtain medical evidence and histories.

Provide a caring and professional point of contact for bereaved families throughout investigations. Coordinate body identification, post-mortem examinations and release arrangements. Arrange transport and examination of exhibits in compliance with relevant legislation and procedures. Attend post-mortem examinations, including forensic and paediatric cases where required. Support the administration of Coroner's Court hearings and inquests. Arrange witness attendance and manage associated court documentation.

What We're Looking For We are seeking individuals who can combine strong investigative and administrative skills with empathy, professionalism and emotional resilience. Essential Skills & Experience Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage confidently with people from diverse backgrounds. Ability to deal sympathetically and professionally with bereaved families. Experience working with members of the public in challenging or sensitive situations.

Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workloads effectively. Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage competing demands. Experience researching, investigating and solving problems. Proven ability to produce accurate written documentation with exceptional attention to detail. Experience working collaboratively with colleagues, departments and external agencies. Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.