Someone has died. We’re here to help.
What to do now, who to contact, and what happens next.
You can contact us as soon as someone has died. You do not need to wait for the medical examiner or for the death to be registered before speaking with us.
Many people are told they need to wait before contacting a funeral director, but this is not the case. A medical examiner is a senior doctor who independently reviews the circumstances and cause of death.
When someone dies at home
If the death was expected, contact the person’s GP practice. A doctor or qualified healthcare professional will need to formally confirm the death. Once this has happened, contact us and we will arrange a suitable time to bring the person into our care.
When someone dies in hospital or in a care home
We work directly with the hospital or care home staff. Contact us when you feel ready and we will make arrangements to bring the person into our care.
When a death is unexpected, or happens abroad
If someone has died unexpectedly, suddenly, or in unexplained circumstances, call 999 immediately. The death may then be referred to the coroner, which can change what happens next. You can still ring us when you are ready.
A coroner is an independent judicial officer who investigates certain deaths, including those that are sudden, unexpected or unexplained.
If someone has died abroad, ring us as well. Repatriation involves additional arrangements and documentation, and we can guide you through the process and manage these arrangements on your behalf.
What happens next depends on where and how the person died
The arrangements and timescales can differ, but we will explain what needs to happen and deal with the funeral arrangements when you are ready.
