Before The Funeral

When Someone Dies

When you lose someone you love, it can be hard to know what to do. Depending on the circumstances, the process can vary. Here is a simple explanation of what could happen and advice to help you navigate the steps you need to take. Alternatively, you can call us anytime on
0800 992 200, and a friendly staff member will talk you through what to do.

At Home with Hospice or Palliative Care:

  • If the person was receiving hospice or palliative care, the on-duty staff will help with the formalities.
  • They will notify the treating doctor and can call a funeral director for you.

 

Steps to Take When Someone Dies at Home:

  1. Contact the family doctor to verify the death and confirm they will sign the medical death certificate.
  2. Notify the next of kin and family members.
  3. Contact hospice or palliative care services if applicable.
  4. Contact a funeral director to arrange the transfer to a funeral home.

 

 

In a Hospital or Nursing Home:

  • If someone dies in a hospital or nursing home, the staff will handle the medical formalities.
  • They will notify the treating doctor and help with the paperwork.
  • They can also contact a funeral director to arrange the transfer to a funeral home.

 

Steps to Take When Someone Dies in a Hospital:

  1. Hospital staff will notify the treating doctor to complete the medical death certificate.
  2. They will inform the next of kin and family members.
  3. The family will need to contact a funeral director to arrange the transfer to a funeral home.
  4. Hospital staff can help release the deceased to the funeral director if requested.

 

Unexpected Death:

  • If someone dies unexpectedly at home, or in a public place, the death may be referred to the Coroner’s Office.
  • You might need immediate assistance from a funeral director.

 

Steps to Take When Someone Dies in a Hospital:

  1. First call the police. They will come to the scene and make arrangements for the transfer of the deceased.
  2. Notify the next of kin and family members.
  3. The deceased will be taken to the coroners, where it will be decided if a post-mortem is required to find out the cause of death.
  4. The coroner will decide whether to open an inquiry into the death or release the person back into your care.
  5. Contact a funeral director to arrange the transfer to a funeral home.