Inquest Manager

Responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day functions of the Inquests Team at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, acting as central point of contact for all Inquest matters.
• Prepare for and represent the Trust at Inquest hearings, and provide specialist support for Trust witnesses attending.
• Manage Inquests involving the Trust, making and recording risk‑management recommendations and outcomes, ensuring divisions complete actions arising from Prevention of Future Death reports.
• Lead the administration of all matters notified by the coroner and their officers, identify appropriate witnesses, advise the coroner’s office, and ensure timely disclosure of documentation in accordance with the Coroner’s and Justice Act 2009.
• Lead pre‑Inquest meetings with Trust witnesses, providing informed, empathetic support and guidance on potential issues that may arise.
• Instruct legal representation (under the authority of the Senior Inquest Advocate) when appropriate.
• Offer advice or signpost staff on other ad hoc legal matters as required.
• Work closely with staff at all levels across the Trust, and with external bodies, agencies, and legal representatives.
• Contribute to the delivery of training for Trust staff on Inquest processes and related legal matters.
• Hold joint line‑management responsibilities for the Senior Inquest Officers and Inquest Officer.

Qualifications

• Degree in Law or a relevant legal qualification, or extensive experience equivalent to the same.
• Relevant postgraduate legal qualification (LLM or similar master’s degree).
• Diploma in Inquests Management.
• In‑depth knowledge of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009, the Coroners (Inquests) Rules 2013 and Coroner’s Bench Rules.
• Experience of working with senior and specialist health‑care teams in tense situations.
• Proven experience working within a legal environment and dealing with complex legal and ethical issues.
• Understanding of current NHS agenda, government health strategies and health‑care standards.
• Knowledge of illness processes and biology.
• Excellent communication skills; able to communicate complex and/or contentious information clearly, accurately and sensitively.

Additional Information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check. This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a submission for Disclosure will be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

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