For some purposes, including post mortem examinations, appropriate consent can be given by someone in a ‘qualifying relationship’ to the deceased immediately before their death. Please see further details in the Codes of Practice for each sector.
Those in a qualifying relationship to the deceased person are (highest first):
The HTA has produced a model consent form for professionals seeking consent for an adult or child's post mortem.
The practice may also take place in other areas of a hospital, for example special care baby units or paediatric wards.
It is the responsibility of Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCBs) to take forward the guidance contained in WTtSC. These Boards are made up of senior managers from different services in a local area, including healthcare, social services, the police and the coroner’s service. All NHS Trust hospitals should be able to identify their LSCB contact for advice.