Deputy Mortuary and Bereavement Services Manager

Responsibilities

• The post holder will deputise for the Mortuary and Bereavement Services manager across all sites of the NWAFT.
• The post holder is responsible for supporting all aspects of after death care including the assessment, planning and evaluation of direct interventions with users, monitoring and ensuring a positive, caring, professional service, and incorporating stakeholders and relatives' feedback to improve quality of care delivery.
• The post holder will provide specialist training for staff regarding the management of aftercare death processes and act as an effective role model and mentor for the professional delivery of the services, promoting excellence throughout practice.
• The post holder will ensure dignified care of the deceased in line with the laws and the codes of practice relating to the mortuary and ensuring all staff adhere to them.
• The post holder will be required to work alongside the Mortuary and Bereavement Services manager to ensure all sites within NWAFT are managed equally and all processes and procedures aligned.
• Support the Mortuary and Bereavement Manager in all aspects of service management, ensuring effective communication with staff and service users to promote best practice in bereavement care.
• Provide leadership to ensure high-quality, appropriate care for the deceased and their relatives.
• Maintain strong working relationships with external agencies including Coroner's Officers, Funeral Directors and Registrars.
• Support management of all mortuary functions, implementing policies, procedures and SOPs in line with HTA and UKAS standards.
• Assist the Mortuary Manager and HTA Designated Individual with HTA visit preparation and administrative requirements.
• Contribute to emergency and continuity planning for Mortuary and Bereavement services.
• Work closely with the Medical Examiner service to ensure effective communication.
• Lead, supervise and participate in staff training.
• Actively engage in departmental meetings, sharing information to keep staff informed and motivated.
• Support the Mortuary Manager in maintaining staffing levels and monitoring annual leave.
• Participate in HR processes including recruitment, induction, sickness monitoring, mandatory training and the Trust's My Performance Appraisal scheme.
• Priority will be given to colleagues identified as at risk through the Trust's redeployment process.