What to do when someone dies

Here you will find information and next steps. We are here for you 24 hours a day so please don’t hesitate to call us when you need us.

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If the person is at home when they die

 (i.e. an expected death) If the death was expected, please contact the GP or the out-of-hours doctor straight away, no matter what time it is. A doctor or qualified nurse will attend to verify the death, confirming that the person has passed away.

Once this has taken place, we can bring your loved one into our care at any time of day or night.

While waiting, try to keep the room as cool as possible. Switch off any electric blankets, but if they are resting on a pressure-relieving mattress, this can be left on. You may wish to gently wash and dress them, close their eyes and mouth, and if needed, place a rolled towel under the chin to help keep it closed.

If cremation is planned, please let the doctor know when they attend, as this requires additional paperwork to be completed later.

If death occurs suddenly

When the Coroner Becomes Involved

If the person had not been seen by their doctor within the last 14 days, or if the death occurred in certain circumstances — such as after an accident, during or soon after an operation, due to an industrial illness, or when the cause is unclear — the death must be referred to the Coroner.

In these cases, the person’s body is placed under the care of the Coroner so that the cause of death can be properly understood. This sometimes involves a Post-Mortem examination, which is a medical procedure carried out to determine the exact cause of death.

We understand that this can be a very difficult and worrying time. The involvement of the Coroner and, at times, the police can sound alarming — but please be reassured, this is a normal legal process and does not mean that anything suspicious has occurred.

Our team will guide you through each step, explain what’s happening, and liaise directly with the Coroner’s office on your behalf. We’re here to help with any questions or concerns and to make sure you feel supported and informed throughout.

Talk to us

We are here to help guide you through the next steps. Please contact one of our offices and we will be happy to help with any further information, support and guidance.

Some kind words

We are dedicated to handling your family’s day in a professional and compassionate manner. Here are some kind words from our clients.