If the death is unexpected
If someone may still be alive, or there is an immediate emergency, call 999. If a death is unexpected, contact the appropriate emergency or medical service and follow their instructions before making collection arrangements.
At a hospital, hospice or care home
The staff can explain the immediate medical and administrative steps. Tell them your choice of funeral director. Ask when the person can be released into the funeral director’s care.
At home, after an expected death
Follow the instructions given by the person’s care team. Contact the healthcare professional identified in the care plan so the death can be verified. Speak to us about the next arrangements when it is appropriate to do so.
When you speak to us
You can begin with your name, a contact number and where the person has died. We can discuss your wishes and explain what information is needed next. Do not send medical records through the general enquiry form.
Registration and official paperwork
The process depends on where the death occurred and whether a coroner is involved. Follow the instructions from the medical examiner, registrar or coroner. The official government guide explains registration, notifications and related practical tasks.