What to Do When Someone Dies at Home

We understand how overwhelming it can feel when a loved one passes away at home. In those first moments, it’s natural to feel unsure of what to do. At Fawcett and Hetherington, we’re here to guide you gently through each step, offering calm, respectful support when you need it most.

If the death was expected

If your loved one was receiving palliative care or had a known illness:

• Contact their GP or attending doctor. They will confirm the death and issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.
• Once this has been done, call us on 01642 459555. We’re available 24 hours a day to help with the next steps.
• You’ll then need to register the death at your local register office within five days. We can advise you on how to do this.

If the death was unexpected

If the death was sudden or unexpected:

• Call 999 and request an ambulance and police. The paramedics will confirm the death and may notify the coroner.
• The coroner may arrange for your loved one to be taken to hospital for further examination before documents can be issued.
• Once you feel ready, contact us. We’ll liaise with the relevant authorities and help you begin arrangements with sensitivity and care.

 You’re Not Alone

We know this is a deeply emotional time. Our family-run team is here to support you—not just with practical arrangements, but with genuine compassion. Whether you need guidance, reassurance, or simply someone to listen, we’re just a phone call away.

If you’d like, we can also connect you with local bereavement support services to help you through the days ahead.

If you think that the person may already have a funeral plan with us please let us know and we can check for you.

How to Register a Death

Registering a death is an important legal step, and we understand it can feel daunting during such an emotional time. At Fawcett and Hetherington, we’re here to guide you through it with clarity and compassion.

Step 1: Obtain the Medical Certificate

A doctor or hospital will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). This is required to begin the registration process. If the death was referred to the coroner, registration may be delayed until their investigation is complete.

Step 2: Contact the Local Register Office

You must register the death within five days (or eight days in Scotland) at the Register Office in the district where the person died. You can book an appointment online or by phone. The registrar will guide you through the process.

Step 3: Attend the Appointment

Bring the MCCD and, if possible, supporting documents such as:

• NHS medical card
• Birth or marriage certificate
• Passport or driving licence
• Proof of address
• National Insurance number (for the deceased and surviving spouse)

The registrar will ask for details including:

• Full name, date and place of birth
• Last address and occupation
• Marital status and spouse’s details
• Whether they received any government pensions or benefits

Step 4: Receive the Documents

After registration, you’ll receive:

• A death certificate (you can purchase extra copies for banks, insurers, etc.)
• A certificate for burial or cremation (often called the “green form”)
• Information to help notify government departments (via the Tell Us Once service, if available)

Need Help?

If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help. Call us on 01642 459555 and we’ll guide you through each step with kindness and care.

You can also find more details on GOV.UK’s official guidance or the Bereavement Advice Centre’s checklist.