Lewisham public mortuary provides an independent service for the reception, examination, storage and release of bodies in circumstances where a post mortem examination is required to ascertain the cause of death.
Facilities are provided for visiting relatives, HM Coroner's officers, pathologists, general practitioners, clergy and specialist agencies.
Two separate rooms are provided for the interviewing of relatives by the Coroner's officers, to ensure enquiries can be made with privacy and confidentiality.
A viewing and identification facility where relatives will not be disturbed and may say their goodbyes in a quiet and dignified manner is also provided. A small reception area adjoins the viewing room, where relatives may compose themselves before leaving.
An extensive range of information and poems in the form of leaflets and booklets are available at no charge.
What happens next
The deceased are kept at the mortuary until the Coroner is satisfied that the body can be released for burial or cremation.