If the deceased passed away due to natural causes in either a funeral home, or at their own home, the family doctor must be notified, so that they can issue a death certificate. This will allow the removal of the deceased so they can be transported to our chapel of rest.
If the death occurs in hospital, a hospital doctor will issue the death certificate, and the family will be instructed to contact the funeral director.
If the doctor is unable to issue a death certificate, he will inform the coroner who may order a post mortem, and depending on the results, hold an inquest. The coroner will notify the family giving permission to go ahead with the funeral.
Registration of death. The death must be registered in the district where the death occurred before the funeral can take place. The registrar will require the death certificate from the doctor or coroner, the birth certificate, marriage certificate and medical card. The registrar will issue a certificate for cremation or burial, and if the person is of pension age, a form with a pre-paid envelope for the return of the pension book. Certified copies of the death register entry can be purchased to sort out financial affairs.
Consult a solicitor, check that the deceased has made a will as it may contain instructions regarding the funeral arrangements.
Get help with funeral costs, if you are responsible for making the funeral arrangements and you are in receipt of a means tested benefit you may receive help towards the cost of the funeral from the social fund. We can help and advise with social security claims.