We are here to guide you.
Compassionate support when you need it most, at every step of the way.
Speak to us for immediate support
020 8888 7262Call us now →
Whatever the situation, we are here to help.
There is no need to make every decision straight away. The first steps depend on where the death has occurred. We can explain what happens next and support you with the arrangements.
At home
The first steps depend on whether the death was expected. Read the guidance below to understand who to contact and what happens next.
Read what to do at home →In hospital
Hospital staff will explain the immediate steps and documentation. Read more about what happens before funeral arrangements can begin.
Read what happens in hospital →In a care home
Care-home staff will help with the first steps and contact the relevant healthcare professionals. Read what to expect next.
Read what happens in a care home →You do not have to manage everything alone.
Call us on 020 8888 7262. We’ll listen, answer your questions and help you understand the next steps. If a death is unexpected, the appropriate medical professionals or authorities may need to be involved before funeral arrangements can proceed.
Arranging the funeral →Get in touch
We’re here to listen, answer your questions and support you whenever you need us.
Call us for a confidential conversation with our caring team.
Practical guidance for the first steps
If someone dies at home
If the death was expected, contact the GP surgery or the healthcare professional responsible for the person’s care. They can explain the next steps for medical certification.
If the death is unexpected or you are unsure whether the person has died, call 999 and follow the emergency operator’s instructions. Do not move the person unless instructed.
Once the necessary medical procedures have been completed, you can contact your chosen funeral director. You do not need to make every funeral decision immediately.
If someone dies in hospital
The hospital team will confirm the death and explain the next steps. Ask for the bereavement office or the member of staff dealing with bereavement arrangements.
The hospital will explain how the medical certificate process works, whether the medical examiner or coroner needs to be involved, and when the person can be transferred into the funeral director’s care.
You can contact your chosen funeral director while paperwork is being arranged; the hospital will advise when transfer can take place.
If someone dies in a care home
The care-home staff will contact the appropriate GP or healthcare professional and explain what happens next. If the death was unexpected, emergency services or the coroner may need to be involved.
Ask the care home who will coordinate the medical certification process and when the funeral director may attend.
You can choose your own funeral director. The care home can liaise with them once any necessary authorisation has been given.
In England and Wales, deaths are normally reviewed by a medical examiner unless referred to a coroner. The medical team or registrar can explain the applicable process. You can also contact Melville & Daughters on 020 8888 7262 if you would like personal guidance.
