When someone dies, the practical tasks can feel overwhelming. This guide covers the essentials for families in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so you can take things one step at a time.
Immediate steps
If the death was expected at home under medical care, contact the GP or the team who had been attending. If the death was unexpected, call 999. In a care home or hospital, staff will guide you through the next steps and provide the medical certificate when ready.
Register the death
You usually need to register within five days in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, or eight days in Scotland. Take the medical certificate of cause of death and personal documents such as a passport or birth certificate if available. The registrar will issue the death certificate — request several copies for banks and insurers.
Tell Us Once
Many councils offer Tell Us Once, which notifies government departments in a single process. Ask the registrar when you book the appointment.
Choose a funeral director
You can compare local funeral directors on our funeral directors directory. Ask about costs, whether a simple funeral is available, and how they support families of different faiths or none.
Record wishes for the future
If you are reading this while planning ahead, start a free funeral wishes plan so your family knows your preferences.