Job Description

Job description
We are looking for a compassionate, resilient and highly organised Coroners Officer to join the Berkshire Coroner's Service, hosted by Reading Borough Council. This is a challenging but rewarding role, supporting the Senior Coroner in the investigation of sudden, unexpected and unnatural deaths. You will work closely with bereaved families, emergency services, medical professionals and partner agencies, ensuring investigations are carried out lawfully, sensitively and efficiently.



We seek the best talent from the widest pool of people as diversity and inclusion is the key to our success. Reading Borough Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to the recruitment and continued employment of people with disabilities.



We support hybrid working - it's important to us that working arrangements are designed to enable our employees to excel and within this role you'll have the opportunity to work in a way that suits your lifestyle.

About The Role:

The role is based at the Coroners Service, which is in the Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading. Flexibility over working hours and willingness to participate in an out of hours Call Out rota will be required.

As a Coroners Officer, you will support the Senior Coroner in the investigation of sudden, unexpected and unnatural deaths. You will receive and assess referrals, make appropriate enquiries, gather and collate evidence, and ensure investigations are progressed lawfully, accurately and efficiently in line with coronial legislation and procedures.



The role may include attending post-mortem examinations and, when authorised, death scenes, as well as managing complex and sensitive information. You will also be instrumental in coordinating witnesses and evidence bundles for inquests.



The role involves maintaining accurate records on the case management system and participating in an out-of-hours rota, including weekends and bank holidays, to ensure a responsive and effective Coroner's Service.

About You:

This role is suited to individuals who are calm under pressure, empathetic, and motivated by making a genuine difference to the public at critical times.



We are looking for someone who:


Has experience or a good understanding of the Coroner's Service or a related investigative, legal, regulatory or public protection environment Previous knowledge of Police procedures, investigation and knowledge of medical terminology will be an advantage, however applications will be considered from those with similar skills or aptitude. Is emotionally resilient and able to deal professionally with distressing situations Can communicate clearly and sensitively with bereaved families and professionals Is highly organised, methodical and able to manage competing priorities Has strong written and verbal communication skills Is confident using IT systems and managing detailed case records Holds a full UK driving licence and can travel across Berkshire

You will be educated to at least Level 2 (including English and Maths) and be willing to undertake ongoing professional development.



You'll be part of a team that relies on each individual to play their part to the best of their ability. As well as the colleagues that you work closely with every day, you'll also be part of Team Reading, playing your personal part in making Reading a successful and vibrant place.



Our vision is to ensure that Reading realises its potential as a great place to live, work and play, and that everyone shares the benefits of this success. Our values and behaviours guide how we will achieve this:

Work Together as one team

- work collaboratively, with each other and with our partners, and demonstrate the Team Reading values in everything we do

Drive Efficiency

- show initiative, be adaptable to change and put forward ideas to help improve delivery and efficiency. Take responsibility for our own learning and development and for reaching our potential.

Be Ambitious

- be demanding of our own performance - striving to be even better - and be prepared to engage with and challenge leaders in a constructive and positive way.

Make a Difference to Reading

- maintain the highest levels of customer service and be flexible and willing to provide the services needed at the time they are needed.

Our offer:

We offer a supportive environment to grow and develop your career with the opportunity to put your ideas across. Innovation and ambition are strongly encouraged, and you'll get a great feel for that working in our friendly and collaborative environment.



A competitive salary alongside a range of benefits including:


Generous holiday entitlement - 25 days holiday each year plus bank holidays - rising to 33 days after 10 years' service, with the option to buy additional leave A wide range of flexible working opportunities Modern working environment at the Town Hall in the heart of Reading Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) Life Assurance - three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS) On-site day nursery (Kennet Day nursery) rated outstanding by Ofsted Season Ticket Loan - a loan to help with the cost of your rail or bus journey, to and from work Lease car salary sacrifice scheme allowing you to lease a brand new, greener car for three years. The monthly fee includes insurance, servicing and road tax

For more information on this position please contact Hazel Sharkey, Senior Coroners Officer

on

hazel.sharkey@reading.gov.uk

Closing Date: Sunday 4th January 2026

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Interview Setup: In person at the Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading