What to do when someone passes away

We are very sorry for your loss. We understand this can be an overwhelming time, with many processes to navigate. This page outlines the next steps before arranging a funeral, and what to expect during this difficult time.

If a death occurs at home

Contact a medical professional to verify the death
During surgery hours, please contact the practice. Outside of these hours, call 111. A clinician will need to attend to formally verify the death.

Contact a funeral director
Once verification has taken place, contact your chosen funeral director. They will arrange to bring the deceased into their care and guide you through the next steps.

Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)

• The GP will complete a draft MCCD and send it to the Medical Examiner’s Office.

• The Medical Examiner will review the cause of death and contact you to discuss this.

• Once agreed, the Medical Examiner will approve the MCCD and ask the GP to complete the formal version.

• This is then returned to the Medical Examiner for countersigning and sent directly to the Register Office.

Registering the death
Once the Medical Examiner confirms that the documentation has been sent, you can contact the Register Office to arrange an appointment.

Timeframes
This process usually takes around 2 working days, although it may be prioritised in cases requiring an urgent faith burial.

If a death occurs in hospital:

• Hospital staff will manage the initial process and liaise with the Medical Examiner’s Office.

• The Medical Examiner will contact you to discuss the cause of death, as above.

• You should contact your chosen funeral director to begin making arrangements.