Coroner and post mortem examinations

3. Certificate of Registration of Death (Form BD8) This needs to be sent to the Department for Work and

Pensions together with any benefit payment books.

It may also be used for claiming such benefits as a widow’s pension. Form BD8 is provided free of charge.

Department for Work and Pensions PO Box 15,

Chester CH70 8BG

Coroners and post mortem examinations

Coroner

In certain situations a death may have to be reported to the Coroner. You will be advised if this has to happen. This generally occurs when a doctor is unable to issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death due to any of the following: • No precise cause can be established • Unnatural causes • Due to an accident or allegations of negligence • The death occurs in custody • The deceased was not seen by the certifying doctor either after death or within 14 days before death. • The death was violent or suspicious • Due to industrial disease or related to the deceased’s employment. • Due to an abortion • The death occurred during an operation or before recovery from the effects of an anaesthetic. • The death maybe suicide • The death occurs during or shortly after detention in police or prison custody or compulsory detention under the Mental Health Act.

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