When someone dies
What to do when someone passes away
It is usual for people to be unsure of what to do after the bereavement. We will take you through the initial steps and provide advice on other things you may need to think about when someone dies.
Completion of statutory paperwork
Tailoring a funeral, observing any religious customs
Taking care of the deceased
Organising visits to our Chapel of Rest
Informing others about the death
Registration of death
You will need a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death from a doctor before you can book an appointment with the registrar.
The registrar will then provide you a GREEN Form–“The Registrars Certificate for Burial or Cremation” (unless the Coroner is involved). A copy should be given to the funeral director.
You can also register with the Tell Us Once Scheme, helping you to inform multiple government departments in one go. https://www.gov.uk/after-a-death/organisations-you-need-to-contact-and-tell-us-once
The registrar will give you a Certificate of Registration of Death (Form BD8), this only applies for social security reasons in relation to pensions, and copies of the Death Certificate (Certified Copy of the Entry of Death). Additional copies can be procured at the time of registration at a cost of £11 each.
- Where the death occurred
- The full name of the person who has died
- Date of Birth and Death
- Occupation
- Whether they were in receipt of a state pension
- The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
- The deceased’s passport or birth certificate
- A Medical Card
- A document with a usual address
Telling others about the death
You may wish to tell people about the death and the details of the funeral, by putting an announcement in a newspaper whether local or national. We can help you with drafting and sending a death announcement to a newspaper.
We can also assist after the funeral with placing a message in the newspaper to thank those who attended and sent flowers or donations. We can if you wish take copies for you to keep.
Once you have entrusted the deceased to our care we will look after them with respect and sensitivity. They will rest with us, at the funeral home, until the day of the funeral, or, if you prefer, they can rest at home or in church, if this is allowed.
We recommend embalming because it delays the natural processes that take place after death. This is particularly important if you want to visit the person in the chapel of rest.
We wash and dress everyone in our care. Some people like to provide us with items such as a favourite outfit. We will follow your wishes carefully and respectfully but, if you would like to help us look after your loved one, please let us know.
Viewing the deceased
Some people find it comforting to see the person who has died and like to bring a small gift or photograph to put in the coffin. Others find it upsetting to see someone they loved who has now passed away.
It really is a personal choice and we aim to help in any way we can.
Got a question? We are always more than happy to discuss your family’s needs. Get in touch today.