Deaths in Custody are important events that require thorough investigation in order to learn lessons arising from cases.

This event aims to provide attendees with an overview of the whole ‘journey’ in relation to deaths in custody but also to improve the practical knowledge and experience that will help to reduce some of the associated apprehension with these investigations and ultimately help to improve the quality of the clinical input.

Starting with a broad overview of the importance of the work related to the investigation of deaths in custody, we then look at the best practice for the preparation and writing of witness statements. Following on from this, we look at the process for the investigation of deaths conducted by the Prison and Probation Ombudsman and the Clinical Reviewer.

After lunch, we then turn to the Coroner’s Inquest itself with a presentation from HM Assistant Coroner who will touch on the relevant components of this process. This will be followed by an opportunity to see Expert Witness evidence in action at a ‘mock inquest’. Finally, we take a look at what the ‘next steps’ may be and how the preceding processes may then lead to Civil claims.