What Happens When Someone Dies

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Guidance and Support Through a Difficult Time

The loss of a loved one can be an emotional and overwhelming experience. At Farewells Funerals, we are here to provide clear, compassionate guidance through every step of the process. From the moment of passing to the final arrangements, we offer support and ensure everything is handled with dignity, care, and in accordance with legal requirements. Our team is available to help you with understanding the steps you need to take during this challenging time.

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Step 1: Immediate Action

At Home

If the death occurs at home, you will need to contact the deceased’s GP or NHS 111 if it is outside of regular hours. They will help confirm the death and provide guidance on what happens next.

In a Hospital or Care Home

If the death occurs in a hospital or care home, the staff will inform you of the necessary steps and ensure that the relevant authorities are notified.

Unexpected Death

If the death is unexpected, call 999. Paramedics and police will attend, and the Coroner may be involved to investigate the cause.

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Step 2: Contact a Funeral Director

Once the death has been confirmed, please contact Farewells Funerals. Our compassionate team will guide you through the arrangements and assist you with the required paperwork, ensuring you receive the support and reassurance you need during this time.

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Step 3: The Medical Examiner Process (New from September 2024)

As of September 2024, all deaths in England must be reviewed by a Medical Examiner before a death certificate is issued. The examiner will:

  • Review the medical records and speak with the attending doctor.
  • Either authorise the doctor to sign the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) or refer the case to the Coroner for further investigation if needed.

This ensures transparency and fairness in the review process.

Medical Examiner Process

Step 4: Registering the Death

The death must be registered within 5 days in the area where the death occurred.

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The registration can be done by:

  • A close relative
  • A person present at the time of death
  • The person arranging the funeral (but not the funeral director)
  • The occupier of the premises where the death occurred

You will need to provide the following details:

  • Full name and personal details of the deceased
  • Date and place of death
  • Last known address
  • Occupation
  • Spouse or civil partner’s details
  • NHS number (if available)

The Registrar will issue:

  • Green Form: Required for burial or cremation
  • BD8 Form: For pensions and DWP
  • Death Certificate:Certified copies can be purchased for banks, insurers, etc.

Local Register Offices in Ripon, Harrogate, and Church Fenton

Ripon Register Office

Harrogate Register Office

Church Fenton Register Office

Support Resources: Settld & Guardian Angel

Settld

Guardian Angel

Bereavement Support Services

Cruse Bereavement Care

Samaritans (24/7)

Child Bereavement UK

Winston’s Wish (For Grieving Children)

The Good Grief Trust

Maggies

Modern Loss

Just ‘B’

Ata Loss

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Step 5: If the Coroner is Involved

If the death was sudden, unexplained, or the deceased had not recently been seen by a doctor, the Coroner may need to investigate. The Coroner can:

  • Request a post-mortem or CT scan
  • Issue an Interim Certificate while an inquest is pendingIssue an Interim Certificate while an inquest is pending
  • Forward documentation to the registrar if the cause of death is determined to be natural

Local Coroner's Offices:

Ripon Coroner’s Office

Harrogate Coroner’s Office

Step 6: Tell Us Once Service

The Tell Us Once service is a free government service that allows you to report a death to multiple departments at once. This includes:

  • Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
  • HMRC
  • DVLA
  • Passport Office
  • Local council (e.g., council tax, electoral roll, housing benefit)

What it doesn't cover:

  • Banks, utility companies, or private services
  • Overseas authorities
  • Legal matters such as probate or will execution

The Registrar will assist you in setting up this service during your appointment.

Step 7: Planning the Funeral

Once the death is registered and the necessary paperwork is in place, we will guide you through the funeral arrangements. Whether you choose a burial, cremation, or a more personalised service, we will ensure the process is handled with the utmost respect and care.

Step 8: Legal, Financial, and Practical Matters

After the funeral, you may need to:

  • Notify banks, insurers, and other organisations of the death
  • Begin the probate process (if there is a will) or follow intestacy laws (if there is no will)
  • Consider seeking legal advice for managing the deceased’s estate and property matters
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Step 9: Emotional Support

Grieving is a personal journey, and no one should walk it alone. Whether through family, friends, or professional counselling, seeking support is crucial. We can connect you with local and national bereavement services to help you through this difficult time.

Local Grief Support Services:

Cruse Bereavement Care

Samaritans

Local Bereavement Support

  • Harrogate: Bereavement support services via local council

  • Ripon: Bereavement support services via Ripon District Council

Helpful Contacts to Notify

Car Insurer

Notify the insurer, especially if the deceased was the policyholder.

Social Services or District Nurses

For returning equipment or medications.

GP or Hospital

To cancel any future appointments.

We’re Here When You Need Us

At Farewells Funerals, we offer a caring hand during difficult times. Whether you need immediate assistance or guidance, we are here to support you every step of the way. For more information or personalised support, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Let us help you navigate this difficult journey with compassion, clarity, and care.

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