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 Registrar. Once registration is complete, we will be issued with the Form 14 which allows us to carry out the funeral.
Arranging the funeral
As arranging the funeral can be difficult and emotional we can do all arrangements wherever you feel the most comfortable, but whether in the comfort of your own home or at our funeral home you will need to consider any wishes of your loved one. This will include the type of ceremony such as a burial or cremation and any specific details about the service.
We are available to help with every aspect of this process, from organising the safe transfer of your loved one into our care, 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 do not have to face this journey alone. We, as funeral directors are all available to help guide you through all the necessary parts. In times like these give yourself grace, take one step at a time and remember that asking for help is fine.
Above all in the middle of handling practical matters, hold onto the love, the memories and the legacy of your loved one. Their spirit will remain in your heart, forever guiding you as you move forward.