What to do when a death occurs
The death of a loved one is always difficult, whether it is expected after a long illness, or is a sudden shock. Sometimes the paperwork required in such situations can seem daunting. We are here to help you with the whole process.
If someone dies at home and the death was expected, the first step is to contact their GP or the NHS out-of-hours services. A doctor or nurse can attend to verify the death. Once this has been done, you may contact your chosen funeral director, when you feel ready. If the death was unexpected, you should call 999 so the emergency services can attend and advise you on the next step.
If someone dies suddenly or unexpectedly at home, you should call 999 imediately and explain what has happened. Paramedics will attend and confirm the the death, and the police will usually come as part of normal procedure. Because the cause of death is not known, the death will be reported to the coroner, who may arrange futher investigations. Once the emergency services have advised you and you feel ready, you can contact your chosen funeral director to support.
When someone dies in hospital, the staff will contact the next of kin and guide you through the immediate steps. The hospital's bereavement or ward team will explain what happens next, help you with any necessary paperwork, arrange for you to collect your loved one's personal belongings. Once the hospital has completed it's procedures, you can contact your chosen funeral director, who will make arrangements to bring your loved one into their care. If the hospital needs to refer the death to the coroner, the bereavement team, will explain why and keep you informed throughout the process.
The coroner will hold an inquest in the following circumstances:
- The cause of death is uncertain after a post-mortem examination
- The death was violent or unnatural
- The death was caused by an industrial disease
An inquest is an enquiry into the medical cause and circumstances of death. The coroner will arrange the enquiry in a way to best serve the public as well as the interest of the relatives.
The death cannot be registered until the inquest has been held. If a death certificate is needed by the family before this, the coroner can (on request) issue an 'interim' death certificate.
The coroner will issue an order for burial or cremation to allow the funeral to take place before the inquest.