Statement following the Inquest into the death of Mr John Lawler

The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) was notified in August 2017 of the death of Mr John Lawler.  An Inquest into his death was undertaken by the Coroner on 11-18 November 2019.  Today the Coroner published his findings.

These are sad circumstances. It has been difficult hearing the testimony of those affected and our sympathy goes to the whole family. The GCC followed the proceedings carefully each day. Following the completion of the Inquest we are now in a position to resume the investigation opened in 2017 following the death of Mr Lawler.

We must consider the Coroner’s findings carefully as we take our next steps. The case will be prepared for consideration by the GCC Investigating Committee for it to decide whether a hearing into the chiropractor’s fitness to practise be held. We will progress this matter as swiftly as possible.

We look forward to receiving the Coroner’s report on steps that might prevent deaths in the future.

For further information please contact: enquiries@gcc-uk.org

Notes for editors:

• The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) is an independent statutory body established by Parliament to regulate the chiropractic profession in the UK.
• Further information about the GCC and its statutory functions can be found here
• In summary, the GCC:
  • Maintains a UK-wide register of qualified chiropractors;
  • Sets the standards of education for individuals training to become chiropractors;
  • Set the standards of chiropractic practice and professional conduct for individuals working as chiropractors. The current standards are detailed in the Code
  • Investigates complaints against chiropractors, and takes action against them where necessary. If a chiropractor is found to be unfit to practise the GCC has the power to admonish, suspend or place conditions on a chiropractor's registration or remove a chiropractor from the register. Details of the GCC’s fitness to practise process can be found here.