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WHAT TO DO FOLLOWING A DEATH

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience, and during this difficult time, it’s essential to know what steps to take following a death. Understanding the procedures and processes involved can help ease the burden and allow you to focus on honouring and remembering your loved one. In this guide, we’ll provide clear and practical information on what to do in the event of a death, whether it occurs at home, in a nursing or residential home, or in a hospital. From contacting the necessary professionals to navigating the paperwork, we’re here to offer guidance and support as you begin the journey of arranging a farewell that pays a fitting tribute to your loved one.

If the Death Occurs at Home

You will need to contact your doctor (or the Doctor on call), who will come to certify the death. On some occasions, if the death was expected and a nurse is present, the Doctor will give authority to the Nurse to confirm the death. Once the Doctor or Nurse has certified, most families then prefer for their loved one to be conveyed to our Chapel of Rest as soon as possible. This can be arranged by telephoning us any time of the day or night.

The medical cert will be sent electronically by the surgery to the registrar, so families don’t need to collect it, but the surgery will let the family know it’s been sent so they can make their
appointment with the registrar.

If the death was unexpected, or the Doctor has not seen the deceased in the last 14 days, the death may be referred to the coroner. For further information regarding the coroner.

If Death Occurs at a Nursing or Residential Home

Most homes will have asked in advance who your selected Funeral Director is, and in the event of the death, they will then ring us day or night so we can convey your loved one to our Chapel of Rest.

The medical cert will be sent electronically by the surgery to the registrar, so families don’t need to collect it, but the surgery will let the family know it’s been sent so they can make their
appointment with the registrar.

If Death Occurs in a Hospital

Please contact us during the day so we can guide you and start the funeral arrangements. You will need to contact the Bereavement Office in the hospital on the first working day following the death after 10:00 a.m.

Once you have made an appointment with the Bereavement Office, you must book an appointment with the Registrar. The medical certificate will be emailed to the registry office. Please note: In some hospitals, the Bereavement Office can make an appointment for you to see the Registrar in the hospital.

Let our Murrant family support you with our Solo Group

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Lynn Murrant facilitates our Solo group, a monthly get-together for those dealing with bereavement. Whether it was a recent loss or you would like to chat with others who have been in a similar situation, we meet monthly for lunch and a chat in a social environment. Please do contact our office to be given details about our next gettogether and we will be happy to help as well as offer you a warm
welcome.

Let our Murrant Family support you in your time of need. We understand that navigating the aftermath of a loss can be overwhelming, and we are here to offer a steady hand and a compassionate heart. Our experienced team will work tirelessly to ease the burden of planning and organising, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – honouring the memory of your loved one. Whether you require assistance with funeral arrangements, grief counselling, or simply someone to lean on during this challenging journey, we are here for you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us, and let us help you find comfort and solace in the midst of this difficult time.