A Guide from Telford Direct Cremation
Losing a loved one is never easy, and knowing what steps to take can help ease some of the stress during this difficult time. As of 9th September 2024, new UK regulations regarding death certification have come into effect. This guide provides a clear step-by-step process to follow when a loved one passes away, ensuring you can make the necessary arrangements with confidence and support.
1. Notify the Relevant Authorities
- At Home: If your loved one passes away at home, contact their GP during working
hours or dial 111 outside of normal hours. They will guide you on what to do next. - In a Hospital or Care Home: The staff will handle the initial procedures and provide guidance on the next steps
2. Contact a Funeral Director
Once the death has been confirmed, you will need to contact a funeral director. At Telford Direct Cremation, we offer personal and compassionate support, handling all arrangements locally across Telford, Wrekin, Cannock, and Stafford.
We ensure that your loved one remains in our dedicated care throughout the entire process—never transferred long distances or to unknown providers.
3. Death Certification Review Process
With the new regulations, a Medical Examiner will now review the circumstances of the death before issuing a certificate
- Medical Examiner’s Role: They will assess medical records and consult with the attending doctor before signing the certificate or referring the case to a coroner.
- Doctor or Coroner Decision:Depending on their review, the Medical Examiner will decide whether the doctor can issue the certificate or if further investigation is needed.
4. Registering the Death
Once the death certificate is issued, you must register the death within five days. You will
need:
- A medical certificate stating the cause of death.
- The full name, date, and place of birth of the deceased.
- Their last known address and occupation.
- Details of a spouse or civil partner (if applicable).
Local Register Offices
5. Arranging the Funeral
Once the death is registered, you can begin funeral arrangements. At Telford Direct Cremation, we handle all legal requirements and provide simple, dignified direct cremations. Ashes are returned within five working days, giving families time to plan a personal farewell.
6. Handling Legal and Financial Matters
- Notify Banks & Institutions: Contact banks, insurance companies, and utility providers to inform them of the death. You may need to provide copies of the death certificate.
- Wills & Probate:If your loved one had a will, the named executor will manage their estate. If no will exists, intestacy laws will determine how their estate is handled.
7. Seek Support
Grieving is a personal journey, and support is available when you need it. Whether from family, friends, or professional bereavement services, reaching out can help.
Bereavement Support Services in Telford, Cannock & Stafford
Coroner Involvement
A coroner may be required if:
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The cause of death is unknown.
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The deceased was not seen by a doctor during their final illness.
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The death was sudden or suspicious.
The coroner may request a post-mortem or CT scan. If satisfied with the cause of death, they will issue the necessary paperwork, allowing the funeral to proceed. If not, an inquest may be required.
Tell Us Once Service
This government service helps notify various departments in one step, including:
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Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
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HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
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Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
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Passport Office
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Local council services
Visit www.gov.uk/tell-us-once to use this service.
Additional Contacts to Notify
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Car Insurance: Update or cancel policies, as insurance becomes void when the policyholder passes away.
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Doctor, Dentist & Hospital: Cancel upcoming medical appointments.
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Banks & Credit Providers: Close or transfer any accounts.
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Utility Providers & Postal Services:Redirect mail and adjust billing accounts.
