Transferring coroners’ records to Places of Deposit

We have prepared this advice in consultation with the Chief Coroner’s Office and the Chief Archivists in Local Government Group (CALGG) of the Archives and Records Association (ARA) and London Metropolitan Archives (LMA). This guidance is designed to assist both coroners and Places of Deposit (PoDs) in carrying out their duties under the Public Records Act 1958 (‘the Act’).

Introduction

Scope This guidance comprises practical advice on the selection and transfer of coroners’ records for permanent preservation and public access.

Preparation and transfer

Transfer of records to a Place of Deposit  Coroners’ records up to 15 years old are held by or on behalf of the coroner, in accordance with Coroners’ Rules.

Appraisal and selection: general principles

Appraisal and selection (analogue / “paper” records): general principles All records, regardless of their format, are subject to the Act.

Appraisal and selection of coroners' inquest files

Overarching principles National guidance on selection of records relating to the coronial system is contained in The National Archives’ Operational Selection Policy (OSP) 6.