When Death Occurs
The Practicalities
Depending on where this person has died, there are different things you’ll need to do. If you’re in need of support and guidance, you can call us any time of the day or night on 020 3067 0068.
The Care Home or Nursing Home
If your loved one has died at their care or nursing home, you can call us when a doctor has certified the death and we will come to collect your loved one with absolutely no obligation, and bring them into our care. The GP will need to be notified, who will provide a medical certificate showing the cause of death.
In a Hospital or Hospice
If the person has died in hospital, a medical certificate will be issued. The person will usually be kept in the hospital mortuary until a funeral director is appointed or arrangements are made.
If Someone Dies Unexpectedly
If someone dies unexpectedly or they haven’t been seen by their GP in the last 14 days, their death will be reported to the coroner, who may call for a post-mortem or inquest. This may take some time and can delay the funeral.
Registering the Death
You’ll need to make an appointment at your local register office to register the death within five days. You’ll need to take along the certificate showing the cause of death, signed by a doctor. If you have their birth certificate, NHS medical card or number and marriage or civil partnership certificates, take these along as well.
You’ll be issued with a certificate for burial or cremation (the green form) and a death certificate. The funeral director will need the green form in order for the funeral to go ahead.
If possible, try to get several copies of the death certificate, as various organisations may ask for it (banks, life insurance companies, etc). The following Government website provides helpful information about how to handle the administration following a death. www.gov.uk/after-a-death
Funeral Associations
