Coroners’ Support Service in Blackpool and Fylde Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is an independent voluntary organisation whose trained volunteers offer emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending an Inquest at Coroners' Courts in England and Wales.

The volunteer lead service started in Blackpool and Fylde Coroners Court after Alan Wilson, HM Coroner for Blackpool and Fylde, saw the value of their contribution to bereaved families at Liverpool Coroners Court where he had worked before moving to Blackpool.

Mayor of Blackpool, Cllr Gillian Campbell and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Adrian Hoyle joined volunteers and guests for the coffee afternoon at the Town Hall. Also in attendance was Roey Burden OBE, who founded the Coroners' Courts Support Service after attending the inquest of a close family member.

Alan Wilson, HM Coroner for Blackpool and Fylde said:

"Today we're celebrating the contribution made by the Coroner's Support Service volunteers. It takes a special type of person who is willing to give up their free time for the benefit of others. They turn up in all weather, with the minimum of fuss and do a fantastic job. I do not think the service would be able to cope without them."

Judith Senior, Lead Volunteer for the Coroners' Courts Support Service in Blackpool and Fylde said:

"The service was set up in Blackpool 10 years ago. There's a team of 12 of us who come into court and help look after families during the inquests after their loved ones have died. We provide moral and emotional support, and help liaise between the families and the Coroner. When families come to Coroner's Court, they can be nervous and emotional. They often just need someone to help explain what's going, and to offer help and support when needed."

To learn more about the Coroners' Courts Support Service, visit their website.