Coping with the loss of a loved one can be difficult. In the first few days after a death, there are three important steps to take:
- Obtain a medical certificate from your GP or hospital doctor (required to register the death).
- Register the death within 5 days (8 days in Scotland). This will provide the necessary documents for the funeral.
- Make funeral arrangements.
Registering the death
If the death has been reported to the coroner (or procurator fiscal in Scotland), you’ll need their permission before registering.
You can register the death if you are a relative, witness to the death, hospital administrator, or the person arranging the funeral.
Use the Register a death page on gov.uk for guidance on the registration process in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
Arranging the funeral
We understand that during a period of bereavement that arranging a funeral can be very challenging. Most people do use a funeral director, but if you prefer, you can arrange it yourself. The funeral can usually take place after registering the death.
Choosing a funeral director
Select a funeral director who is a member of a reputable organisation, such as the National Association of Funeral Directors, National Federation of Funeral Directors, or Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors.
These organisations have codes of practice and must provide a price list upon request.
Some local councils offer funeral services, and the British Humanist Association can assist with non-religious funerals.
Arranging the funeral yourself
Contact your local council’s cemeteries and crematorium department to arrange the funeral yourself.
Funeral costs
Funeral costs can include funeral director fees, third-party costs (e.g. crematorium fees, newspaper announcements), and local authority burial or cremation fees.
Funeral directors should list all costs in their quotes.