When someone close to you dies, the first hours and days can often seem overwhelming and confusing. Here is some guidance to help you.
Arrange the funeral
There is no need to feel rushed, you have plenty of time to plan a funeral that lets you say goodbye to your loved one in the way you want. The first step is to contact your Funeral Director who will then guide you through the funeral arrangements.
Tell family and friends
While you don’t need to contact everyone immediately, it’s best that people close to the person who has died don’t find out by accident, so you can ask family members and friends of the person who has died to help you pass on the news.
Share memories
As you talk to family and friends you can begin to share memories which will help you to plan the funeral that best remembers the person who has died.
Register the death
You need to register the death within five days, unless the death has been referred to the Coroner.
Tell organisations and professionals
In the longer term you will need to tell many people and organisations about the death but in the first few days you can concentrate on those who need to know immediately, such as employers, educational establishments, care providers and health professionals. Tell banks and building societies quickly to keep the finances secure and avoid identity theft.
Our funeral directors are here to help you, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you’re unsure about what to do next, pick up the phone to your local funeral director and we’ll be there for you with our years of experience and understanding.
