A Guide from Liverpool Direct Cremation
Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and understanding what steps to take next can help alleviate some of the stress. As of 9th September 2024, new UK regulations regarding death certification have come into effect. This guide outlines the key steps to follow when a loved one passes away, in line with these updated guidelines.
1. Notify the Relevant Authorities
- At Home: If the death occurs at home, contact the deceased’s GP or dial 111 if it's outside normal hours. They will advise you on the next steps.
- In a Hospital or Care Home: If the death happens in a hospital or care home, the staff will handle the initial steps and guide you further.
2. Contact a Funeral Director
Once the death has been reported, contact a funeral director. At Liverpool Direct Cremation, we are here to assist you through this process. We offer personal, compassionate support and handle all arrangements locally, ensuring your loved one stays in Liverpool, Merseyside, Knowsley, or Sefton, under the care of our experienced team.
3. Death Certification Review Process
Under the new regulations, a Medical Examiner will now review the circumstances surrounding the death before issuing a certificate:
- Medical Examiner’s Role: The Medical Examiner reviews medical records and consults the attending doctor to either sign the death certificate or refer the case to a coroner.
- Doctor or Coroner Decision: Depending on the review, the Medical Examiner will decide whether the attending doctor can sign the certificate or if further investigation by a coroner is needed.
4. Registering the Death
Once a death certificate is issued, you need to register the death. This should be done within five days. You will need the following:
- A medical certificate stating the cause of death..
- Personal details of the deceased (full name, date and place of birth, last address, occupation).
- Details of a spouse or civil partner (if applicable).
5. Arranging the Funeral
After registering the death, you can proceed with funeral arrangements. Liverpool Direct Cremation will manage all legal requirements and ensure the process is smooth. We offer simple and dignified direct cremations, with ashes returned to you within five working days.
6. Handling Legal and Financial Matters
- Notifying Institutions:Inform banks, insurance companies, utility providers, and other organisations of the death. You may need to provide copies of the death certificate.
- Wills and Probate: If there is a will, contact the executor to begin the probate process. If there is no will, the estate will be handled according to intestacy laws.
7. Seek Support
Grieving is a natural process, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to friends, family, or professional grief counsellors for support. There are several organisations across Liverpool and Merseyside that offer bereavement assistance.
Coroner Involvement
A coroner may need to be involved if the cause of death is unknown, the deceased was not seen by a doctor during their final illness, or the death was sudden or suspicious. In such cases, a post-mortem or CT scan may be carried out. If the coroner is satisfied with the cause of death, they will send the necessary paperwork to the registrar, allowing you to proceed with funeral arrangements. An inquest may be required if the death is complex or unexplained.
Registering the Death
You must register the death at the local registry office where it occurred. The following individuals can register the death:
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A relative present at the time of death.
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A relative during the deceased’s final illness.
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The person responsible for funeral arrangements (excluding the funeral director).
Documents you will need include the medical certificate and other supporting paperwork, such as a passport, birth certificate, or marriage certificate of the deceased.
Tell Us Once Service
The Tell Us Once service makes it easier to notify various government departments and local services about the death. This service will notify organisations such as:
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The 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.
Additional Contacts to Notify
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Car Insurance
You must update or cancel the policy, as you are not legally insured to drive a vehicle registered in the deceased’s name.
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Doctor, Dentist, and Hospital
Cancel any upcoming appointments or services.
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Banks and Credit Providers
Close or transfer any accounts.
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Utility Providers and Postal Services
Arrange for mail redirection and notify service providers.
Useful Contacts Across Liverpool and Merseyside
Bereavement Support
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Cruse Bereavement Care
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Samaritans
For more information or to begin arrangements, contact our team today.
We are here to help you every step of the way during this difficult time.