Guidance

Murder or manslaughter of British nationals abroad: organisational roles and responsibilities

Explains the roles and responsibilities of the UK organisations that support bereaved families when a British national dies by murder or manslaughter abroad.

• From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• Published: 31 August 2022
• Last updated: 12 February 2026 — See all updates

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Murder or manslaughter of British nationals abroad: organisational roles and responsibilities

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Annex 1: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office - role and responsibilities

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Annex 2: Ministry of Justice Homicide Service - role and responsibilities

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Annex 3: Police forces in England and Wales - role and responsibilities

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Annex 4: Coroner (England and Wales) - role and responsibilities

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Annex 5: Useful links

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Details

These documents explain how UK organisations support families in England and Wales when a British national is murdered or dies by manslaughter abroad. They set out:

• what support the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Ministry of Justice, police and coroners can provide
• how organisations share information and coordinate with each other and with overseas authorities
• what families can expect if a body is repatriated to England or Wales

If the victim is a British person you know, read Support after murder or manslaughter abroad.

Published 31 August 2022

Last updated 12 February 2026 + show all updates

1. 12 February 2026

   The guidance has been completely rewritten for improved clarity and to reflect the latest roles and responsibilities.

2. 31 August 2022

   First published.