Sudden unexpected death policy
This guidance sets the process and standards that should be attained for dealing with unexpected, unexplained, suspicious deaths or any other deaths.
The aims of this procedural guidance and associated documents are to:
- provide clear guidance to officers and staff, and to ensure that Avon and Somerset Police provide a transparent, consistent, and high-quality professional response to reports of unexpected death which aligns with the Authorised Professional Practice (APP) set by the College of Policing
- set out roles and responsibilities of staff and supervisors when dealing with unexpected deaths
- support an appropriate initial response to, and thorough and effective investigation of, unexpected deaths
- ensure that the investigation into a death meets the statutory responsibilities of HM Coroners
- ensure that all appropriate information and support is provided to relatives, carers and others affected by the death
The guidance applies to all members of Avon and Somerset Police (ASP) who may be involved in such investigations.