What does the job involve?
Coroners are independent judicial officers who carry out an inquest if a death looks unnatural. “A coroner’s officer assists the coroner and investigates violent or unnatural deaths of bodies that lie within their jurisdiction and determines whether an inquest is required,” says Sandi Meisner, coroner’s officer manager, inner West London.

What skills and background are needed?
Until recently coroner’s officers were police officers, but more now come from other backgrounds. Most are employed by the police, but some are employed by local authorities. “A coroner’s officer must have effective communication and listening skills, alongside a sensitive, compassionate and mature approach to deal with bereaved people at times of distress. The ability to liaise with the medical and legal profession, police and witnesses, good investigative and problem-solving skills and an inquiring mind are also necessary,” Meisner says. You need a working knowledge of coroner’s law, death certification regulations and an awareness of recent legislation.

What are the opportunities?
There is no mandatory training for coroner’s officers and in the past most training was on the job. But since 1997 the Coroner’s Officers Association has worked with the University of Teesside to deliver accredited training courses. In some jurisdictions you can progress to senior coroner’s officer or coroner’s officer manager. Salaries range from £15,000 to £25,000. For information go to www.coronersofficer.org.uk.

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