The guide below offers practical information for what to do after someone passes away.
What to do
Losing a loved one is never easy and in those moments of grief, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. While the emotional journey of loss is unique to each individual, there are also practical steps that need to be taken in the days following a loved one’s passing. We would like to offer a brief guide on what needs to be done when a loved one passes away, with the hope that it will help ease some of the burden during such a difficult time.
Confirm the Death
The first thing that must happen is that the death is officially confirmed. If your loved one passes at home, a doctor will need to be called to verify their passing and provide a medical certificate. Police also may attend and will advise of the next steps. If they are in a hospital or care home, the staff will typically handle this process for you. In the case of sudden or unexplained death, the authorities may become involved to determine the cause of death.
Register the Death
Once the death has been confirmed, it must be registered with the local registry office. To do this, we must wait on the doctor or procurator fiscal completing the medical certificate. This will be electronically sent to the registrars. Once the registration is complete, we will be issued with the Form 14 which allows us to carry out the funeral.
Arrange the Funeral
Arranging the funeral we can either attend in the comfort of your own home or at our funeral home, you will need to consider the wishes of your loved one, whether they wanted a burial or cremation and any specific details about the service. We are available to help with every aspect of the process, from organising the safe transfer of your loved one to coordinating the service itself. We will guide you through the many decisions that need to be made, providing the support you need during a time of grief.
We’re Here to Help
While these steps may seem daunting, please remember that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. We, as funeral directors are all available to help guide you through these necessary tasks. In times like these, it’s important to give yourself grace, to take one step at a time, and to remember that it’s okay to ask for help.
Above all, in the midst of handling practical matters, hold onto the love, the memories and the legacy of the person you’ve lost. Their spirit will remain in your heart, forever guiding you as you move forward.