What To Do When Someone Dies

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Guidance and Support — One Step at a Time

The loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming. Questions often arise quickly — sometimes in the middle of the night — and it may be difficult to know where to begin. At Lodge Brothers, we are here to guide you gently through each step. We listen, we explain, and we take care.

From the moment of passing to the final arrangements, we provide clear guidance with warmth, dignity and professionalism, ensuring every action meets current legal requirements — including the new Medical Examiner system introduced in September 2024.

Step 1: Immediate Actions

If the Death Occurs at Home

  • Contact their GP, who will confirm the death if it was expected.

  • Outside GP hours, call NHS 111 who will advise you on what to do next.

  • A medical professional will need to officially verify the death.

If the Death is Sudden, Unexpected or Accidental

  • Dial 999 immediately.

  • Paramedics and police may attend.

  • In many cases, the death will be referred to the Coroner for investigation.

Step 2: Contact a Funeral Director

Once the death has been verified, you may contact Lodge Brothers. We will guide you through what happens next and explain any legal processes clearly. We can also arrange for your loved one to be brought into our care — gently and respectfully.

Step 3: Medical Examiner Process

If the Death Occurs at Home

All deaths in England and Wales must now be reviewed by a Medical Examiner before a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death can be issued. This process ensures thorough scrutiny, fairness and transparency.

What will happen:

  • 1. Medical notes will be reviewed.

  • 2. The Medical Examiner may speak to the attending doctor.

  • 3. If the cause of death is clear, the doctor may be authorised to issue the Medical Certificate.

  • 4. If further clarification is needed, the case may be referred to the Coroner.

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Step 4: Registering the Death

Registration must take place within 5 days (England and Wales). The death should be registered with the Registrar’s Office in the district where it occurred.

Who can register the death:

  • A close relative

  • Someone present at the time of death

  • The person arranging the funeral (not the funeral director)

  • The occupier of the premises where the death occurred

You will need:

  • Full name, date of birth and address of the deceased

  • Date and place of death

  • Occupation

  • Details of any spouse or civil partner

  • National Insurance number (if known)

  • Information about any pensions or benefits

The registrar will issue:

  • Green Form — needed for burial or cremation

  • BD8 Form — for pensions and DWP

  • Death Certificate — certified copies can be purchased if needed

Step 5: If the Coroner Is Involved

A Coroner may become involved if:

  • The death was sudden or unexplained

  • No doctor attended in the final 14 days

  • It occurred during surgery or work-related activity

The Coroner may:

  • Request a post-mortem or CT scan

  • Issue an interim certificate

  • Provide documentation directly to the registrar

Coroners (Regional)

Step 6: Tell Us Once Service

This government service allows you to notify several departments at once, including:

  • DWP – pensions and benefits

  • HMRC – tax matters

  • DVLA – driving licence

  • Passport Office

  • Local council – housing and council tax

The registrar will explain how to use this service during your appointment.

Step 7: Arranging the Funeral

Once the death is registered and the Green Form has been issued, we can begin making funeral arrangements. Whether you choose a direct cremation, a traditional funeral, a service of thanksgiving or a personalised memorial, we will guide you gently through every choice.

Step 8: Legal, Financial & Practical Matters

After the funeral, you may need to:

  • Notify banks and insurance providers

  • Begin probate (if there is a will)

  • Follow intestacy rules (if there is no will)

  • Contact utility companies or service providers

Our Legal Services team can provide professional guidance if needed.

Step 9: Emotional Support

Grief affects everyone differently. You are not alone, and there is help available.

Bereavement Support Services

Lodge Brothers can also help connect you with local grief support groups and counselling services across Surrey, London and Berkshire.

What To Do When Someone Dies Dowload Pdf

We Are Here When You Need Us

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24 Hours a Day Call: 020 8818 7725

For immediate support or guidance, please call your nearest Lodge Brothers branch. We are available day and night, every day of the year.

We listen. We guide. We take care — one step at a time.