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<p>The answer of the 30<sup>th</sup> September to Question 290669 had no separate
note, however, in the interests of transparency for information and ease of reference,
I can advise that the following points were considered in providing the previous answer:</p><p>
</p><p>There is no requirement for a coroner to inform the Department of the outcome
of an inquest unless it specifically relates to the Department, for example Reg. 28
Prevention of Future Deaths report. There was no corporate memory for Coroners cases
prior to the Coroners Focal Point being set up in 2016. Despite the existence of the
Focal Point, we know that Coroners interact with areas of the Department without liaising
with the Focal Point nor Legal Services.</p><p> </p><p>When submitting evidence to
Inquests, the Department would not necessarily know the inquest related to a suicide
as cause is not established at that point.</p><p> </p><p>There is no requirement for
Coroners to advise the department of findings of suicide. Communication from Coroners
can enter the Department at multiple points. There is therefore no robust central
record of these contacts. To establish that we are certain we have all information
to answer such questions would require a broad spectrum query to be sent out to the
business. Answering the question would require us to contact the multiple possible
entry points through which a Coroner can contact the Department. Conduct a thorough
search. Collate the information and provide the answer within the limited time allowed
by a named day question. This is not possible within the costs laid out in Parliamentary
guidance.</p><p> </p><p>The Department takes the welfare of vulnerable clients seriously
and where the department is made aware of a suicide of a customer a review is undertaken.
This process is being updated and strengthened to further improve how we identify,
review and learn from serious cases, including those involving suicide.</p>
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