If you’re unfortunately dealing with the loss of a loved one, there can be an overwhelming amount of things you need to consider. Here at Quinn Memorials, we are here to help you navigate, guide and support you during this most difficult time. This simple guide will provide all the information you need for the initial days and months following their death. 

What are the first steps should I take?

1. Ensure you have a medical certificate - Speak to your GP about obtaining this important document. If your loved one has died in hospital, then they will usually supply this for you.
2. Register the death - Registration of death needs to be done within 5 days of death (or 8 if you’re in Scotland). 
3. Arrange the funeral - Once you’ve selected your funeral director, they can work with you to help plan the funeral and cater to any requirements you may have. Remember, funeral directors deal with death everyday, should you have any questions or concerns, they are there to support and advise you.
4. Arrange a memorial - Choosing a memorial headstone for a grave with a personal inscription can make a fitting tribute you need for your loved one. 
5. Notify relevant organisations - There are several organisations you must inform following a death. These include: The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), Bank and Building Society, the Tax Office, Local Authority, UK Identity and Passport Service, DVLA, utility suppliers, accountants, and other relevant government departments. 
6. Deal with online accounts - This includes online banking and social media platforms. Each platform will have a Terms of Service unique to them so you may need to produce different legal documentation to access it. 
7. Organise the estate - This is usually in the hands of the person named as executor of the will. It is their job to organise property and money of the deceased. 

What to do when someone dies at home?

If someone dies at home, the first thing you should do is call the GP or family doctor. The doctor will visit the house, and if the cause of death is clear, a medical certificate will be given with all the relevant information on. You will then register the death at the Register Office, where you will receive a death certificate.

If the death was unexpected, a coroner will need to be contacted to arrange a post-mortem examination. This can delay funeral plans.

What happens if someone dies in hospital? 

Should your family member or friend die in hospital, hospital staff will be there to support you at every stage. They will issue you a medical certificate and their body will be kept in the hospital mortuary until the funeral director or family members can have the body removed. 

What happens when someone dies abroad?

If someone dies abroad then the death will need to be registered in accordance with the local authorities. The British Consul will also need to authorise a consulate death certificate. 

When does a funeral take place?

A funeral usually takes place within 1-2 weeks of death, but this can vary depending on religious beliefs or complications. For example, some religions require a burial within 24 hours, or some may be waiting for results of a post-mortem. 

Who is next of kin when someone dies?

Next of kin refers to the closest living relative to the person who has passed. 

This is seen as (in priority order): 

• Spouse or civil partner 
• Children 
• Parents 
• Siblings 

Need help organising a memorial inscription or special headstone?

Here at Quinn Memorials, we are a family run business that provides friendly helping hands in your time of need. Over two decades, we have established a team of professionals who care and want to help you find the right headstone grave for a long-lasting memory, and place to grieve. Based in Kilbirnie, North Ayrshire, we have an indoor showroom housing over 30 granite headstones, enabling you to make a decision in your own time, without any pressure. 

For more information, or if you have any questions or queries about the services that we can provide; don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01505 685455 and we will be happy to help.