What To Do When Someone Dies

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most painful experiences. Alongside the emotional weight of grief, there are often practical steps that must be taken, sometimes very quickly. This can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time handling such matters. This guide gently walks you through what to do when someone dies, helping you navigate both the immediate and longer-term steps.

1. Take a Moment for Yourself

The first moments after someone passes are filled with shock and sadness. Before anything else, allow yourself to pause and breathe. It’s okay to cry, call a trusted friend, or simply sit in silence. You don’t have to rush straight into action.

2. Confirm the Death

•               At home (expected death): If the person was under medical care, call their            doctor or the healthcare team to formally confirm the death.

•               At home (unexpected death): Call emergency services. They will send         professionals to verify the death.

•               In hospital, hospice, or care home: Staff will handle the confirmation and guide    you through the next steps.

3. Notify Close Family and Friends

It can help to let someone else assist in spreading the news. Start with immediate family members, and then close friends. If it feels overwhelming, ask one or two trusted people to help pass on the information.

4. Arrangements for the Body

•               A funeral director (undertaker) can be contacted to bring the body into their         care.

•               In some cultures, or faiths, family members may wish to keep the body at home   for a period of mourning or prayer.

•               Hospitals and care homes will usually hold the body until arrangements are           made.

5. Obtain the Death Certificate

This is an essential document for all legal matters, including arranging the funeral, closing accounts, and managing the estate. Usually, a doctor or coroner provides the certificate. Request several copies, as many institutions will need one.

6. Register the Death

You’ll typically need to register the death with the local authority within a few days. This provides the official paperwork you’ll need for funeral arrangements and legal matters. Bring identification documents and the medical certificate when you go.

The registrar will mention the Tell Us Once Service which will enable you to notify most government organisations in one go.  If you wish to use this service then the registrar will provide you with the unique code and below is a link to the website which will guide you through the process www.gov.uk/after-a-death/organisations-you-need-to-contact-and-tell-us-once

7. Begin Funeral Arrangements

Decide whether your loved one wished for a burial, cremation, or another form of service. If they left a will or funeral plan, follow their wishes. If not, talk with close family to make decisions together. A funeral director can guide you through the process, including:

•               Choosing a date and venue

•               Writing an obituary or announcement

•               Selecting readings, music, or traditions

8. Notify Institutions and Handle Practical Matters

This part can feel like a long checklist, but you can tackle it step by step:

•               Inform banks, insurance companies, and pension providers

•               Cancel utilities, subscriptions, and social media accounts

•               Contact employers or benefit offices if applicable

•               Begin the probate process for managing the estate

9. Look After Yourself

Grief doesn’t follow a straight line. It may come in waves, and everyone copes differently. Be kind to yourself, and don’t feel pressured to "move on" quickly. Consider:

•               Talking with a grief counsellor

•               Joining a support group

•               Spending time with loved ones

•               Taking care of your health with rest, nourishment, and gentle movement

10. Remember and Honour Them

Finding personal ways to keep their memory alive can bring comfort. You might:

•               Create a memory box or photo album

•               Plant a tree in their honour

•               Organise an annual remembrance gathering

•               Support a charity they cared about

Final Thoughts

When someone dies, the combination of heartbreak and practical responsibilities can feel overwhelming. Take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help—whether from family, friends, professionals, or support services.

While grief never truly ends, love also never fades. In time, you may find peace in the memories you hold and the legacy your loved one leaves behind.