In Times of Bereavement
Last Updated: Friday, 28 July 2023In the unfortunate event that a person has passed away, there are three things that must be done in the first few days.
A medical certificate will be issued. This will be either a GP or hospital doctor depending on where the person died. This certificate, along with a medical summary is then sent to a medical examiner for review. If they agree with the original cause of death, they will forward the certificate to the registrar who can then issue the death certificate to the family/next of kin. Occasionally, the original cause of death may need updating which can add a delay to the process.
Sometimes, the case may be referred to the coroner. In this instance, rather than going to a medical examiner, the coroner will speak to the patient's GP or hospital doctor, where appropriate, to determine a cause of death. Once the case has been resolved, the death certificate can be issued.
You can find out more information about registering a death here.
Arrange the funeral
The funeral can usually only take place after the death is registered. Most people use a funeral director, though you can arrange a funeral yourself.
Funeral directors
Choose a funeral director who’s a member of one of the following:
These organisations have codes of practice - they must give you a price list when asked.
Some local councils run their own funeral services, for example for non-religious burials. The British Humanist Association can also help with non-religious funerals.
Arranging the funeral yourself
Contact the Cemeteries and Crematorium Department of your local council to arrange a funeral yourself.