Jemma Gaule

Acting Chair

I am the Coroners Service manager for West Sussex, Brighton and Hove. I’ve worked within the service for 15+ years and have experienced a lot in my time so far. I’ve worked in most roles including Coroners officer, admin support, Senior Coroners Officer before becoming the Service Manager.

As a Coroners officer I supported the team with the investigation and Inquest following a terrorist attack in In Amenas which resulted in an Inquest hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice. As a Senior Coroners Officer I was first on scene on behalf of the service at the Shoreham Air Disaster in August 2015 and supported the families all the way through to Inquest in 2023.

In more recent times I have played key roles in mortuary capacity management though the Covid 19 pandemic, the merger of West Sussex, Brighton and Hove Jurisdiction, various recruitment drives, development of a new Court facility and much much more!

When not at work I am either out walking with the dog, teaching yoga or throwing weights around in a CrossFit gym. Also, a huge fan of cooking and watching films (it’s all about balance)!

I am passionate about the service and the help and support Coroners Officers give to the bereaved. COASA was always a safe space for me as an Officer to turn to whenever I needed guidance or support and I hope it can be the same for you too.

As a member of the panel I am keen to use our voice to ensure Coroners officers and staff are heard and have a say in key decisions!