Accounting for valuables

• Be aware of local policy.
• All valuables should be identified, accounted for and sent for safe-keeping as soon as is reasonably practical, in keeping with local policy.
• Any jewellery left on the deceased should be taped, and details noted on the appropriate documentation.
• A second responsible person should always be called on as witness when accounting for client property whether the client is deceased or otherwise.
• No valuables or other client property should be given to relatives prior to full documentation and a signature of receipt should be obtained.
• It is usual to ask relatives to collect the deceased’s belongings when they come to collect the Medical Certificate of Death. This allows time to parcel the property more appropriately and thus reduce the potential for further distress.