What To Do When A Death Occurs

The death of a loved one comes as a great shock to us all, and unfortunately most of us will be confronted with the task of having to deal with making the funeral arrangements.

On receipt of the first call, it is our policy to take complete responsibility for all details involved, so that the relatives have no more worry than is absolutely necessary at this difficult time.

If the death occurs at home, or in a rest home, the doctor must first be notified. He will sign the necessary certificate, and allow the removal to take place. Our staff are on call, 24 hours a day, to take care of this duty.

If the death occurs in hospital, a doctor there will sign the certificate. Please contact us to make an appointment to see you.

However, if a doctor is unable to issue a certificate, the Coroner will be informed. He may order a post mortem, and even an inquest if necessary. His permission is required to carry on with the funeral.

A death must be registered in the district in which it occurred, normally within 5 days, and in any event before the funeral can take place. The registrar will require the certificate from the Doctor or Coroner and also the birth certificate, medical card and any marriage certificate for the deceased. The Registrar will issue documents authorising the burial or cremation which we require, and copies of the entry in the register can be purchased for legal and insurance purposes.

If the deceased has a Solicitor, contact him or her as soon as possible. If not, check whether the deceased has made a will. If no will can be traced it may be advisable to see a Solicitor.

Notify any Insurance Company with whom the deceased has a policy. Remember, if you drive a car insured in the name of the deceased you will not be covered. The Bank Account and all other assets will normally be frozen. It may be possible to make an interim arrangement. Any items such as credit cards, benefit books, passport, driving licence, membership cards and N.H.S. equipment should be returned to the place of issue.

If you are responsible for arranging a funeral and you receive income support or housing benefit, you may be eligible for a funeral payment from the Social Fund. Contact the local DWP Office.