What to do when someone dies

Losing someone close to you is overwhelming. In the first hours and days, it can be difficult to know what needs to be done and in what order.

This guide walks you through the practical steps, so you can focus on what matters most.

What happens first depends on where the person has died:

At home (expected death):
Call their GP or the out-of-hours doctor. They will confirm the death and begin the paperwork.

In hospital or hospice:
Staff will guide you and arrange the medical certificate.

Unexpected death:
Call emergency services. The police or coroner may become involved.

Before anything else, take a moment. You do not need to do everything at once.

A doctor must confirm the cause of death before anything else can happen.

• This is called the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.
• If the cause is unclear, the coroner may investigate.

You'll need this document to register the death and arrange the funeral.

In England, you must register the death within 5 days unless the coroner is involved.

You'll do this at your local register office. For Walsall families, this is usually arranged through the local council.

At the appointment, you'll receive:

• The death certificate.
• A certificate for burial or cremation, often called the green form.

This document allows the funeral to go ahead.

This is where Gill's Funeral Care can support you.

A funeral director will:

• Bring your loved one into their care.
• Guide you through your options.
• Help plan the funeral service.
• Handle practical arrangements with crematoriums or burial grounds.

You don't need to have all the answers. This is what we're here for.

You'll be gently guided through decisions such as:

• Burial or cremation.
• Type of service: religious, non-religious, or celebration of life.
• Music, readings, and personal touches.

There is no right way, only what feels right for your family.

After registering the death, you'll be offered the Tell Us Once service.

This allows you to notify multiple government departments in one step, including HMRC, DWP, and the Passport Office.

You'll also need to contact:

• Banks and building societies.
• Utility providers.
• Employers or pension providers.

You may be entitled to help with costs, including:

• Bereavement Support Payment.
• Funeral Expenses Payment.

Eligibility depends on your circumstances.

At Gill's Funeral Care in Walsall, we understand that this may be one of the most difficult times in your life.

Our role is simple:

• To guide you through each step.
• To take care of the practical details.
• To help you create a meaningful farewell.

Whether you need immediate assistance or just someone to talk things through with, we're here when you need us.