East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust's dedicated pathology team is making headlines as they feature in the acclaimed Channel 5 documentary series "Cause of Death". Now in its third season, the award-winning show offers a compelling look into the work behind investigating sudden deaths, highlighting the vital role of the pathology service.
Filmed at Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, the series delves into the intricacies of the coronial process and the collaborative efforts of various professionals.
Featured prominently are Duncan Watson, Senior Anatomical Pathology Technician, Lorraine Richardson, Mortuary Manager, Megan Wallace, Mortuary Assistant, Dr Badal Sarin, Emergency Department Specialist, and Janet Carr, Senior Biomedical Scientist. Together, they support the Coroner’s office in uncovering the reasons behind unexpected deaths and providing closure for grieving families.
Duncan Watson, Senior Anatomical Pathology Technician, who has been with East Lancashire Hospitals Trust since 2010, commented, “The documentary provides a useful insight into the Coroners Service and how they go about investigating sudden deaths along with their partners in the police and NHS.
“I feel it is important to care for all the patients who come through the mortuary, whether or not the deaths require investigation by the Coroner, and I’m proud to be a part of an excellent mortuary team.”
The series features people from East Lancashire. In episode one it featured the sad story of Jake Broughton, a young man from Barnoldswick who committed suicide and in episode two the family of Stephanie Thorpe share their experiences after the 32-year-old mum of one tragically lost her life after attending the Restricted Forest music festival in Blackburn.
“In my experience death is a subject that people do not want to consider so it's something they avoid,” explains Mortuary Manager Lorraine Richardson, who has been at the Trust since 2006. “Then when it does happen people are lost in a world of grief and disbelief and many do not know the process or what to do next.
“This is when the mortuary, Coroner and bereavement teams are there to help, offer support and do their best to assist.
“My team and myself like to think that we treat the deceased with the upmost respect, in the same way we would want our own relatives treated. We hope seeing this work being carried out in a professional and dignified way helps people a little during their grief.”
The public response to the programme has been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising the show’s respectful portrayal of the process and the compassionate support provided to families. Social media comments have highlighted the documentary’s impact, with viewers noting, “It’s sad to watch, but offers a valuable insight into the process” and “The dignity shown to the deceased and support for families is truly commendable.”
To watch the series’ back click here.