Death of a Senior National figure
Council name NOCTON PARISH COUNCIL
Policy title Death of a Senior National Figure
First Adoption date 13 December 2020
Latest Review and Adoption date 14 April 2026 (Agenda ref. 12)
Next Review date May 2028
1. Introduction
This Policy offers guidance to be followed by Nocton Parish Council on the death of a senior national figure: the Sovereign, other senior members of the Royal Family or senior national figures.
This document is derived from the template supplied by the National Association of Civic Officers (NACO) which is followed by parish and town councils across England.
2. Implementation of the Protocol
The protocol will only be implemented when an official announcement has been made by Buckingham Palace, the Royal Household, or the Government.
Responsibility for implementing the protocol rests with the Clerk to the Council in consultation with the Chair of the Council
If necessary, decisions may be taken under delegated authority due to the urgent nature of events.
3. Proclamation Day
In the case of the death of the Sovereign (D-Day), the day following the death will be Proclamation Day (the day when the new Sovereign is proclaimed (D+1).
The parish council will follow national guidance during this period.
4. Official Correspondence
The council may:
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Place a mourning notice on the website homepage
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Publish a statement of condolence from the Chair
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Provide links to national books of condolence
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Share relevant information via social media or noticeboards
5. Book of Condolence
The Parish Council Book of Condolence should be opened on the first working day after the day of death and remain available until the day after the funeral.
The location of the book will be publicised.
Nocton Parish Council may arrange a joint Book of condolence with neighbouring Parishes
Pages including any questionable comments will be removed until such time as a decision can be taken at senior level regarding permanent exclusion.
The Book will remain part of the archives of the Parish Councils
6. Two Minute Silence
On the death of the Sovereign there will be a Two Minute Silence at 11.00 a.m. on the day of the funeral (D+10), should a Parish Council event be happening at this time.
7. Meetings and Events
The council may decide to:
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Begin meetings with a minute’s silence
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Cancel or postpone council events during the mourning period
The decision will be made by the Chair and Clerk.
8. Participation in Civic Events
The council may participate in:
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Civic services organised by the principal authority
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Local church or community remembrance services
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National moments of silence
9. Review
This policy will be reviewed by the Parish Council at least every 24 months, or sooner if required to ensure it reflects national guidance and good practice