The Coroner's Court course

One of the most challenging aspects of working in mental health is experiencing the death of a patient who has been under your care. In many cases, the death is referred to the coroner to hold an inquest. This is an investigation into the cause of death and, in some circumstances considers what action can be taken to prevent future deaths. Being involved in a coroner's inquest is a very real and anxiety-provoking prospect for many clinicians. For the families of the deceased, it is unimaginably distressing.

This one-day interactive online course aims to cover everything you need to know about the coroner’s court, including the impact on families, and to help you gain skills and confidence in the preparation and writing of reports and giving oral evidence. The course is led by a practising Coroner, an experienced mental health lawyer, and consultant psychiatrist, with invaluable contributions from families who have lost loved ones in mental health and custodial settings, and their legal representative.

The morning sessions will focus on learning about the inquest process and roles of different individuals involved. The afternoon sessions will give you an opportunity to join a report writing workshop and to role-play common coroner’s court scenarios. We also consider the emotional impact of inquests on clinicians and families and where to access support.