Confirming the cause of a death

The cause of a death will be agreed by the Medical Examiner Office if the death:

• took place in a South Tyneside or Sunderland hospital, and
• the death has not been not referred to the coroner

As the next of kin, you will be able to discuss any concerns about the cause of death, and the care your relative received before their death, with the Medical Examiner Office.

For guidance when a death has been referred to a coroner, see Bereavement Advice Centre: When a coroner is involved.