.png/:/rs=h:200,cg:true,m/qt=q:95)
.png/:/rs=h:104,cg:true,m/qt=q:95)
First Steps
First Steps
Dealing with the death of a loved one can be a difficult and emotional time. At Nottinghamshire Funeral Service, we understand the overwhelming nature of these emotions and we are here to offer help and guidance throughout the process. While we are able to take care of most tasks on your behalf, registering the death is one responsibility that requires your personal attention. To assist you with this process, we have compiled a step-by-step guide on what to do when a death occurs.
If the death occurred at home
In the event of a loved one's passing at home, certain actions must be taken, depending on whether the death was expected or unexpected, and whether it occurred during the day or at night.
If the death was natural and expected, it is necessary to contact the GP or community nurse in order to verify the death. Once the death has been confirmed, please contact us to arrange for the removal of the deceased into our care. Our service line is available 24 hours a day to assist you in this regard.
If the death was expected and natural, the GP or community nurse who has been looking after the deceased will be able to issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). It is advisable to contact the GP in this instance to certify the death. The GP surgery will send the MCCD electronically to the local registrar's office.
In the event of an unexpected death, it is recommended that the police and ambulance services be contacted by dialing 999. The operator will provide instructions on what to do next. If the cause of death is unknown, it is essential to avoid disturbing the area, except for the purpose of resuscitation. The police will then take charge of the situation, collect the deceased, and arrange for them to be taken to the Coroner.
OUR OUT OF HOURS SERVICE TELEPHONE NUMBER: 0115 9871237 or 0115 9207002
If the death occurred at hospital
In the event of a loved one's death at a hospital, it is necessary to await contact from a member of the Bereavement staff to discuss the cause of death. Following agreement on the cause of death, the staff will send all relevant documentation to the registrars for processing. While this delay may seem inconvenient, it is possible that the doctor required to complete the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) may not be on duty at the time of the death.
The hospital staff will provide you with detailed guidance on the procedure to be followed. It is important to note that the MCCD is required for registration of the death, unless the coroner is involved.
Bereavement number for Queens Medical Centre and Nottingham City Hospital
0115 970 9113
If the death occurred at a care home or nursing home
In the event that a loved one has passed away while under the care of a nursing or care home, it is customary for the General Practitioner (GP) to issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD).
The care home staff are responsible for contacting the GP on behalf of the family. Upon receipt of the MCCD, the GP's practice will subsequently forward it to the relevant registrar by electronic means.
The care home or GP's office staff will provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.
It is vital to secure the MCCD as it is a mandatory requirement for the registration of death, unless the coroner's involvement is necessary.
