Skip to main content

What is the first step in arranging a funeral in the UK?

What is the first step in arranging a funeral in the UK?

Find Help

More Items From Ergsy search


Understanding the Initial Steps

Arranging a funeral in the UK can seem overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. Breaking it into steps can simplify the process. The first step is crucial, laying the foundation for the entire arrangement.

Starting the arrangement process involves practical decisions and being informed about the needed legal procedures. It requires understanding both emotional and logistical needs.

Contacting a Funeral Director

The initial step often involves contacting a funeral director. Funeral directors provide professional support and guidance during this difficult time.

They help coordinate the various aspects of the funeral, from planning the service to handling paperwork. They can also offer advice on personalizing the ceremony to reflect the deceased’s wishes.

Registering the Death

Before most funeral arrangements can be made, it’s mandatory to register the death. This must be done within five days in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and within eight days in Scotland.

The registration is performed at the local Register Office, and an official death certificate is issued. This certificate is essential for organizing the funeral and handling the deceased’s legal affairs.

Gathering Necessary Information

During this initial stage, gather essential information about the deceased. This includes details such as their full name, date of birth, and any specific funeral wishes they might have had.

This information will assist the funeral director in planning a respectful service. It also ensures that the arrangements align with any pre-existing plans or the wishes expressed in a will.

Deciding on the Type of Funeral

Consider the type of funeral that best suits the deceased and the family’s preferences. This could be a burial, cremation, or an alternative service.

Discussing these options early helps in making informed decisions. It also provides clarity on what steps the funeral director should prioritize next.

Planning for Immediate Needs

In the immediate aftermath of a death, some decisions need urgent attention. Arranging care for the deceased’s body and understanding any religious or cultural requirements are key.

Ensuring these aspects are considered promptly can alleviate further stress. It allows the family to focus on coming together for support and remembrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step in arranging a funeral in the UK?

The first step is to obtain a medical certificate of the cause of death from a doctor.

Who issues the medical certificate of cause of death in the UK?

A doctor who attended to the deceased issues the medical certificate of cause of death.

Why is obtaining a medical certificate necessary for arranging a funeral?

The medical certificate is needed to legally register the death and proceed with funeral arrangements.

What should be done after obtaining the medical certificate of cause of death?

After obtaining the certificate, you should register the death with the local register office.

Can I arrange a funeral without a medical certificate in the UK?

No, you must have the medical certificate to register the death and legally arrange a funeral.

Is it possible to begin funeral arrangements before registering the death?

You can discuss plans with a funeral director, but official arrangements require the death to be registered.

Who is responsible for obtaining the medical certificate?

The next of kin or another close family member typically obtains the medical certificate.

How soon should the medical certificate be obtained after a death?

It should be obtained as soon as possible, typically within 24 hours of the death.

What information is required to obtain a medical certificate of cause of death?

You will need details about the deceased, such as their full name, date of birth, and address.

Can a funeral director help with obtaining the medical certificate?

Yes, a funeral director can provide guidance but cannot obtain the certificate on your behalf.

Is the medical certificate of cause of death used for other purposes?

Yes, it is used to formally register the death at the local registry office.

Can I register a death online in the UK?

No, deaths must be registered in person at a local register office.

What happens if the death occurs in a hospital?

The hospital will usually assist in facilitating the issuance of the medical certificate.

What is the role of a coroner in obtaining a medical certificate?

If the death is sudden or unexplained, it may be referred to a coroner, who will investigate before a certificate is issued.

How is a death registered at the registry office?

You provide the medical certificate and some personal details about the deceased person to register the death.

What legal document allows the funeral plans to proceed?

After registration, a 'death certificate' allows the funeral plans to officially proceed.

Who can register a death with the local authority?

The next of kin, a relative, or someone who was present at the death can register it.

How long does it take to receive a death certificate after registering the death?

You usually receive the death certificate immediately after registration is complete.

Can you arrange a funeral without a death certificate?

A death certificate is needed to legally confirm the death before final funeral arrangements.

What should I do if I lose the death certificate?

You can obtain a replacement copy from the registry office where the death was registered.

Useful Links

Useful Links : What is the first step in arranging a funeral in the UK?
What to do when someone dies

NHS guide on the immediate steps required when someone dies.
Arranging a funeral

Age UK guide on planning a funeral.
Planning a funeral

Cruse Bereavement Support's advice on funeral planning.
First steps when someone dies

Macmillan Cancer Support's guide on first steps after a death.
When someone dies

Citizens Advice guide on what to do after a death.
Important Information On Using This Service


This website offers general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals. If you have any medical concerns or need urgent help, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services immediately.

  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search