We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at the Coroner’s Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroner’s Officers, if required.

What You'll Do: 

*CURRENTLY ONLY AVAILABLE AT CROOK, COUNTY DURHAM* Meet and greet bereaved families and the court and provide emotional and pracitcal support throughout the inquest. Explain the role and remit of the coroner and the coronial process, answer any questions they may have and if appropriate signpost to support agencies for ongoing suppport following the inquest.

Why You'll Love It: 
You will gain invaluable experience supporting bereaved families and witnesses. Be part of a supportive team. Attend team meetings. Receive support and Supervision.
What You'll Learn: 
Learn about the coronial process, although we do not focus on the law as the role is about emotional support.  You will attend observations to learn about the inquest process, then invited to attend a 3 day virtual training course where you will learn about language and terminology, communication skills, grief, CCSS services, role of the coroner, and coroners officer etc.  
What We're Looking For: 
New volunteers should be reliable, punctual and posess excellent communication and listening skills, and the ability to empathise with the people they are supporting. The ability to work as part of a team as well as your own initiative. A mature caring attitude is needed in order to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Be adaptable and have a common sense approach to any issues whihch may arrive during the day of inquest.
Summary
Volunteering
Durham
7 Hours / Week
Skills you will develop: 
Active listening
Teamwork/Collaboration
Adaptability
Communication
Empathy
Languages you should know: 
English
Requirements: 
CV / Resume
DBS check
In-Person Interview
Over 18
Training

Similar Opportunities

 
Governor Vacancies
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Min. 0 Weeks Minimum weeks
Governor Vacancies
Volunteering

Help shape the school’s vision, support leadership, and ensure resources are used effectively. No experience needed—training provided. Make a real impact on education while developing valuable skills in a voluntary role.

 
Volunteer Driver
Depaul UK Nightstop & Positive Pathways
Min. 0 Weeks Minimum weeks
Volunteer Driver
Volunteering
Community, Homelessness, Social Care

 
Positive Pathways Volunteer - Homelessness
Depaul UK Nightstop & Positive Pathways
Min. 0 Weeks Minimum weeks
Positive Pathways Volunteer - Homelessness
Volunteering
Community, Homelessness, Mental Health, Poverty

Positive Pathways is our homelessness prevention programme in Middlesbrough, specifically designed to help people with experience of homelessness moving forward in life focusing on developing a broad range of life skills.

Related Articles

Volun-tees
Do Good, Feel Good - Daisy Chain Megastore Volunteering Day
Do Good, Feel Good Daisy Chain Megastore Volunteering Day
Volun-tees
Tony Allen Case Study
Volunteering Case Study, Tony Allen
Volun-tees
June 2025 Newsletter
June Newsletter 2025