Knowing what to do when someone dies can feel both overwhelming and confusing.

If you’re stuck on what to do first, this guide explains what to do when someone dies, including the practical steps that usually need to happen in the UK.

The first steps depend on where the person died.

If the person dies at home and the death was expected, you should contact their GP or call NHS 111. A doctor or qualified healthcare professional will need to confirm the death before anything else can happen.

If the death was unexpected, you should call 999 so emergency services can attend.

If the person dies in hospital, a hospice or a care home, staff will guide you through the next steps. A doctor will confirm the death and explain what will happen next, including how to obtain the medical certificate needed to register the death.

At this stage, the main priority is simply ensuring that the death has been officially confirmed by a medical professional.

A doctor will issue a ‘Medical Certificate of Cause of Death‘. This document states the cause of death and is required before the death can be registered.

In many cases, the doctor who was caring for the person before they died will complete this certificate. Hospitals and GP practices will explain how and when it can be collected or sent directly to the registrar.

Sometimes a death must be referred to a coroner. This can happen if:

• the cause of death is unknown

• the death was sudden or unexpected

• the person died as the result of an accident or injury

• the death occurred in certain circumstances where further investigation is needed

If the coroner becomes involved, they will explain the next steps. This may include a post-mortem examination before the death can be formally registered.

In England and Wales, a death usually needs to be registered within five days, although this may take longer if the coroner is involved.

Registration takes place at the local register office in the area where the person died. Most offices require you to make an appointment.

During the appointment, the registrar will ask for details about the person who has died. This may include –

• their full name

• date and place of birth

• last address

• occupation

• marital status

You may also be asked to provide documents such as a passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate or NHS number if these are available.

After the death has been registered, the registrar will provide important documents including –

• the death certificate (you can request multiple copies if needed)

• a certificate for burial or cremation, which allows the funeral to take place

• access to the Tell Us Once service, which helps notify several government departments

Letting people know that someone has died can be one of the most difficult tasks during the early days of bereavement.

Some families choose to contact people individually by phone, while others share the news through a small number of relatives or close friends who can help spread the information. This can reduce the pressure on one person having to make many calls.

People may respond to the news in different ways. Some may want to talk or offer support immediately, while others may struggle to find the right words. Both reactions are common when people hear difficult news.

Several organisations will need to be notified when someone dies.

When you register the death, the registrar will usually offer access to the Tell Us Once service. This service allows you to report the death to multiple government departments at the same time.

Through Tell Us Once, you can notify organisations such as:

• HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)

• Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

• the Passport Office

• the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)

• some local council services

Using this service can save time and reduce the number of organisations you need to contact separately.

Most families choose to work with a funeral director, who will guide you through the process of arranging a funeral.

A funeral director can help with practical arrangements such as transporting the person who has died, organising burial or cremation, preparing paperwork and coordinating the funeral service.

During this stage, families usually make decisions about –

• whether the funeral will be a burial or cremation

• the date, time and location of the service

• readings, music or personal elements that reflect the person’s life

Funerals can take many different forms. Some families choose a traditional religious service, while others prefer a non-religious ceremony or a small private gathering.

After someone dies, there may be financial matters that need to be addressed. This can include contacting banks or building societies, pension providers, insurance companies and mortgage providers or landlords.

These organisations will explain what documentation they require and what steps need to be taken to manage or close accounts.

In some situations, families may need to apply for probate. Probate is the legal process that allows the person’s estate to be managed and distributed according to their will or the law if no will exists.

If probate is required, a solicitor or legal advisor can help explain the process.

If you need more information on the financial support available for bereaved families, click here.

There are also a number of everyday practical matters that may need attention over time.

These may include –

• cancelling or transferring utilities, such as gas, electricity or internet

• cancelling subscriptions, memberships or services

• notifying the person’s employer

• redirecting post or managing mail

These tasks often happen gradually in the weeks following a death and can be shared among family members where possible.

Handling practical tasks while grieving can feel exhausting. Grief can affect sleep, concentration and decision-making, which can make even simple tasks feel difficult.

Many people find it helpful to take things one step at a time and accept help from others when it is offered. Friends and family may be able to assist with phone calls, paperwork or practical arrangements.

Taking breaks and allowing yourself time to process what has happened is an important part of coping with loss.

If you need more guidance on insomnia following a loss, click here.

Alongside the practical responsibilities that follow a death, emotional support can be an important part of the grieving process.

Some people find support through family members or friends, while others benefit from speaking with bereavement professionals who are experienced in supporting people after a loss.

Bereavement support services provide a safe and confidential space to talk about grief, memories and the challenges that can follow a death.

At The Laura Centre, we provide bereavement counselling for families who have experienced the death of a child, parent or sibling.

Everyone experiences grief differently, and there is no ‘right’ way to feel after such a significant loss. Our support is tailored to each individual and family, helping you navigate the challenges that can come with bereavement.

If you would like to find out more, email us via info@thelauracentre.org.uk or call us on 0116 254 4341.