What to do

WHAT TO DO WHEN A LOVED ONE DIES

We take you through what you should do in the instance of the death of a loved one.

We understand that a bereavement in the family or of friends is an emotional and very difficult time. As experienced Funeral Directors in the West Midlands, we have been trusted by families to make the necessary preparations, to allow family and friends time to reflect and grieve the loss of their loved one. Our role is to ensure that your arrangements are made according to your or the deceased wishes and are carried out with care, dignity, respect and reassurance. Our team are here to listen and advise and guide you through this difficult time.

Many people are unsure of what to do following a bereavement. Here you can find out about registering the death and the start of making the funeral arrangements.

Unfortunately at some point during our lives we will all experience the loss of a loved one. It is quite common to be unsure what you need to do in the event of a death. There are many decisions and arrangements to be made. We can guide you through this difficult time and assist you in making the funeral arrangements. Ensuring all legal requirements are met following a death.

When a loved one dies at home

Should the death occur at home or in a nursing home and has been expected the doctor which has been treating the deceased must be informed. As long as the deceased has been seen by a doctor within the previous 14 days the doctor will attend the home or nursing home of the deceased to confirm the death. Alternatively the doctor could give permission for the deceased to be taken to a funeral home should this be your wish.

When a loved one dies in hospital

If a relative who has been an in-patient at hospital dies, the doctors which have been treating the deceased will usually be able to issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. Ask the ward staff or doctor what you need to do to collect this certificate or contact us for advice.

Most hospitals will provide family members the opportunity to sit with the deceased before transfer from the ward or private room. There may be a chapel of rest at the hospital specifically for this purpose. The deceased will then be taken to the mortuary from where they can then be collected by ourselves.

When a loved one dies unexpectedly

When somebody dies unexpectedly and they have not been under a doctor’s care it is quite normal for the doctor involved to inform the Coroner as standard procedure. We can liaise with the coroner on your behalf and advise you on the necessary procedures.

When a loved one dies abroad

We are able to assist you with making all of the necessary arrangements in having your loved one brought home.

Please contact Greenhills Funeral Directors if you would like your loved one to be taken into our care.

West Midlands Funeral Director