• The RCPath SAC and the BAFM welcome the publication by the Forensic Science Regulator of the 3rd Audit of the Work of Forensic Pathologists Based in the United Kingdom (2012), and a Study into Decision Making at the Initial Scene of Unexpected Death, prepared by the Forensic Pathology Unit of the Home Office.
• The RCPath SAC and the BAFM are pleased that both of these documents have identified consistently high standards in the provision of forensic pathology in the UK.
• The RCPath SAC and the BAFM acknowledge the findings of these documents that the standard of initial police investigations into unexpected deaths is of variable quality and gives cause for concern.   It is also accepted that inability to identify unexpected deaths as suspicious during the initial phase of death investigation and the failure to refer such cases to a suitably qualified forensic pathologist carry a significant risk of homicide being missed.
•  The RCPath SAC and the BAFM strongly support the eight recommendations for improving the initial police investigations into unexpected deaths contained within the Study into Decision Making at the Initial Scene of Unexpected Death.

The RCPath SAC and the BAFM are committed to supporting the work of the Forensic Pathology Unit of the Home Office in improving police investigations into unexpected death, through provision of training and technical advice. 

Dr Nat Cary, Chair. RCPath Forensic Pathology Specialty Advisory Committee