Walsall Healthcare has been working with families, the council and community leaders to ensure the prompt and safe release of deceased patients to better support funeral wishes.
Known as a fast-track release, this process is available to all but can be particularly important for communities with certain religious or cultural beliefs.
Following discussions with Gulfam Wali of Walsall Muslim Burial Council, Imran Sacha representing the Union of Muslim Organisations, local Councillors Khizar Hussain and Aftab Nawaz, and the Black Country Coroner’s Office, Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s policy and procedures have been amended.
Fast-track releases can only take place when the cause of death is known, the patient has died of natural causes and there is no requirement for a Coroner’s referral.
Previously, bodies could only be released following completion of a Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death (MCCD). Now, a deceased patient’s body can be released before this is issued providing the above circumstances apply.
The Trust’s Medical Examiner’s Office will review each case and support this release.
Nike Akinwale, Lead Medical Examiner, said: “The Trust wants to be as supportive and compassionate as possible to anyone dealing with a bereavement, while ensuring national standards are followed to ensure the safe release of deceased patients.
“We have been listening to our families, communities and partners, who may have experienced slight delays in the past, to work together to amend our processes to better support people during this difficult time.
“We appreciate there are many circumstances where families want to be able to access a fast-track release as an important part of their bereavement process and we hope the changes we have made reflect this for them.”
Councillor Hussain said: “Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences any family can face, and it is important that we do all we can to support people with compassion and understanding during their time of grief. I welcome the positive changes made, which will help families access timely funeral arrangements while ensuring all necessary procedures are followed safely and appropriately.
“These improvements have been developed through close collaboration between the Trust, community representatives, partner organisations, and Councillors. It demonstrates a real commitment to listening to the needs of our diverse communities. I am grateful to everyone involved in helping to deliver a process that respects cultural and religious wishes while providing reassurance and support to bereaved families across Walsall.”
The new approach applies in and out of hours for deceased patients, babies and foetuses.