The Coroners' Officers Association (COA) was formed in November 1997 to enhance the understanding of the role of Coroner's Officers. In 2007 Coroners' Staff were welcomed as Full members.

It was clear that we should operate to a consistent and minimum standard and it was therefore agreed to set up a national training programme to achieve a measure of standardisation across the country. We are working in partnership with Teesside University on a number of training courses - of which there is more in the Training Section on this site.

We have since been recognised by the respective Government departments with responsibility for the Coroner Service and have worked with the Home Office and other Government departments and the Association of Chief Police Officers as an established professional body, and were mentioned in the Tarling report on the Coroner Service.

We contributed to the Fundamental Review of the Coroner's Service and gave evidence to the Shipman Inquiry. We were involved in the drafting process of the new Coroners and Justice Act (2009) and the Department of Health proposal for changes to the death certification and the introduction of medical examiners

There is of course a good deal more to do but we can only progress if we grow as a body of professionals. Why not join us and add your voice to ours and positively affect the future for all staff working in the coroner service?
Naturally there is a cost involved and you will understand that it is necessary to build our infrastructure. Some employers will pay the membership subscription as it supports you in your role with information and training conferences.

We do not wish to take the place of any trade union or the Police Federation. Our position is that of a professional body which will eventually confer a proper status on our members. We have a working agreement with the trade union UNISON, who represent a considerable number of our members.

The COA constitution states: Coroners' Officers and Coroners' Staff are defined as persons responsible to one of Her Majesty's Coroners who have a role in the procedures for dealing with sudden, unexpected or unnatural deaths

The objects of the Association are to:
• advance the expertise of Coroners' Officers and Coroners' Staff
• formulate and promote continuous professional development for Coroners' Officers and Coroners' Staff
• pursue national standards of working practices for all Coroners' Officers and Coroners' Staff
• pursue national standards of pay, terms and conditions for all Coroners' Officers and Coroners' Staff (other than serving police officers)
• act as a negotiating and advisory body when required
• act as liaison on matters concerning Coroners' Officers and Coroners' Staff with any relevant government department or other organisation or association