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The passing of a loved one will be challenging time for anyone. If you're unsure about what you're supposed to do in such a situation or whom you're supposed to inform, we can help.

What to do when a death occurs

What to do when someone dies at home

Expected death at home

If the death is expected, you should contact the deceased’s GP. If the surgery is closed, an out‑of‑hours number will be available. A healthcare professional will attend to confirm or verify the death. Once this has taken place, you can contact St James Funeral Home to discuss the next steps. The funeral director will then make arrangements for your loved one to be brought into our care, ensuring they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

Unexpected death at home

In the event of an unexpected or sudden death at home, please contact emergency services immediately. In these situations, the coroner may need to be involved, and your loved one will be taken to the hospital so the necessary inquiries can be carried out. It is normal for police officers to attend. This is a routine part of the coroner’s process, and there is no need for concern. Notify the officers St James Funeral Home is your chosen funeral director. The officers will be able to arrange for our attendance so we can assist in transporting your loved one to the hospital.

Throughout this process, the coroner’s office will stay in contact with you and will work closely with our funeral director to ensure everything is handled with care and coordination.

What to do when someone dies at hospital

When a passing occurs in hospital, the Care After Death team will liaise with you directly. They will ensure that all the required documentation from a doctor is provided to the Medical Examiner. Once the Medical Examiner has reviewed and completed the necessary paperwork, they will notify the registrar.

The registrar will then contact the next of kin to arrange an appointment to officially register the death.

It is advisable to contact St James Funeral Home once you have had an initial conversation with the Care After Death team, so we can support you with the next steps.

What to do when someone dies in a Nursing/Care Home setting

Notify the staff of your chosen funeral director. In the case of an expected death, the attending GP will be called to confirm the death and arrangements will be made for us to bring your loved one into our care at St James Funeral Home. If it is a sudden death, the involvement of the coroner may be necessary, and your loved one may be taken into hospital whilst the coroners inquiries are carried out.