Facing the death of someone close to you is one of life’s most difficult challenges. On top of the emotional impact, there are also practical matters to handle, which can feel overwhelming. We at The Farewell Guide aim to make this process as manageable as possible, offering support, advice, and tools to help you navigate this time. 

This guide provides practical information on what to do when someone dies, how to arrange a funeral, and ways to remember your loved one. 
 

Looking After Yourself 

Grieving is a deeply personal experience, and there is no “right” way to feel. You may experience disbelief, guilt, anger, sadness, or even relief. All these feelings are valid. It’s essential to care for yourself during this time, whether that means reaching out to friends and family, seeking counselling, or taking moments for solitude and reflection. 

Consider building a support network to help you cope. This might include: 

• Friends and family who can listen and assist with daily tasks. 

• Support groups or professional counselling services. 

• Online resources and guides, such as those offered on our website. 

Here are some additional UK-based bereavement support services: 

• Cruse Bereavement Support: Offers free and confidential support for grief and bereavement. 

• Samaritans: Provides 24/7 support for anyone in emotional distress, including those grieving. 

• Child Bereavement UK: Specialises in helping families, children, and young people cope with bereavement. 

• At A Loss: A hub for finding local and national bereavement support services across the UK. 

Take the time to recognise your feelings, and don’t hesitate to accept offers of help from others. 
 

What to Do When Someone Dies 

The steps you need to take after someone dies can vary depending on their circumstances and wishes. Below, we outline the general process. 

Taking Time to Say Goodbye 

Saying goodbye is a vital part of the grieving process. Whether your loved one passed away at home, in hospital, or elsewhere, take the time you need to honour them in your way. If you’re unsure how to proceed, reach out to others for support. 

Obtaining the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death 

This document officially states the cause of death and is required for registering the death. Here’s how it works: 

• If the person passed away at home, contact their GP as soon as possible. 

• If the death occurred in hospital or in a hospice, the medical staff there will usually issue the certificate. 

• Once the certificate is completed, it will be sent to the local medical examiner for approval. 
   

Registering the Death 

Deaths in the UK must be registered within five days. To do this, contact the registry office in the area where the death occurred. When registering, you will need the following details: 

• Full name of the deceased (and any previous names). 

• Date and place of birth. 

• Last address. 

• Occupation. 

• Marital status and details of a surviving spouse or civil partner (if applicable). 

Once registered, you will receive: 

• A death certificate. 

• A “green form” for burial or cremation. 
   

Informing Relevant People and Organisations 

You may need to notify a range of individuals and organisations, including: 

• Government services (via the “Tell Us Once” service). 

• Banks, insurers, and utility providers. 

• Employers or pension providers. 

• Schools, if children are involved. 

• Medical professionals. 

Here is a comprehensive checklist of who to inform: 

• Government services: Notify HMRC, DVLA (for driving licences), the Department for Work and Pensions, and council tax offices. The "Tell Us Once" service simplifies this process. 

• Financial institutions: Inform banks, building societies, mortgage providers, and any pension or investment companies. 

• Insurance providers: Contact life insurance, health insurance, home insurance, and car insurance companies. 

• Utility companies: Notify providers for electricity, gas, water, and internet/TV services. 

• Healthcare providers: Contact the deceased’s GP, dentist, and any hospitals or clinics they attended. 

• Educational institutions: Inform schools, colleges, or universities if the deceased was a student or had children attending these institutions. 

• Employers: Notify current or past employers to check for unpaid salaries, pensions, or life insurance policies. 

• Memberships and subscriptions: Cancel subscriptions such as gym memberships, magazines, or clubs. 

• Digital accounts: Close or memorialise social media accounts and manage digital subscriptions. Organisations like the Digital Legacy Association can offer guidance. 

This checklist is designed to minimise the chances of receiving mail or correspondence addressed to the deceased, which can be upsetting. 

Arranging a Funeral 

Planning a funeral can feel daunting, but it’s an opportunity to honour your loved one’s life. At The Farewell Guide, we provide tools and advice to help you plan a funeral that reflects your loved one’s wishes. 

Our platform makes it easy to plan a funeral. From selecting service details to finding trusted providers, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Visit our funeral planning section to begin creating a personalised plan that suits your needs. 

Ways to Remember 

Honouring your loved one’s memory can be a powerful part of the healing process. Here are some ideas: 

• Create a Memorial: Use our online tools to set up a memorial page where family and friends can share memories, photos, and messages. 

• Plant a Tree or Dedicate a Bench: A lasting tribute can serve as a comforting place to visit and reflect. 

• Charitable Donations: Consider asking for donations in their memory to a cause they cared about. 

At The Farewell Guide, we’re committed to supporting you through every step of this journey. Whether you need practical advice, tools to plan a funeral, or ideas for remembrance, we’re here to help.  

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