{"id":408,"date":"2025-05-20T06:56:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-20T06:56:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/information-about-care-after-death\/"},"modified":"2025-05-20T10:33:18","modified_gmt":"2025-05-20T10:33:18","slug":"information-about-care-after-death","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/information-about-care-after-death\/","title":{"rendered":"Information about care after death"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\nClick on the question to find out more information<\/strong>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Q: What is verification of death and who can do it?<\/summary>\nWhen someone dies, one of the first important steps is to verify the death<\/strong>. This is different from certifying the cause of death. Verification confirms that the person has died and allows the next steps to take place.

What Does It Mean to “Verify a Death”?<\/strong>
Verifying a death means a trained person confirms that life has ended<\/strong>. They check for signs like no heartbeat or breathing. This is not the same as issuing a medical certificate<\/strong> of cause of death \u2014 that comes after.

Who Can Verify a Death in the UK?
A death can be verified by:
A doctor (GP or hospital doctor)<\/strong>
A nurse<\/strong> who has been trained to do so
A paramedic<\/strong> (in some situations)

You do not<\/strong> need a doctor to be present right away, as long as a trained professional is available.

When Must Death Be Verified?<\/strong>
Death should be verified as soon as possible<\/strong> after the person has died. Usually within a few hours if death was expected. If the death was unexpected or sudden<\/strong>, the emergency services must be called immediately, and the police may also attend. In the event of unexpected death, the body should not be moved unless instructed to do so by the emergency services.

Once death has been verified, the body can be moved, and arrangements like contacting a funeral director can begin.

What If No One Is Available?<\/strong>
If the person dies at home and no trained person is present:
Call the GP surgery, ECHO or NHS 111. If death occurs out of hours, a district nurse or on-call doctor may come to verify the death. In an emergency or unexpected death, call 999<\/strong>

In Summary<\/strong>
A doctor, nurse, paramedic, or trained care worker can verify a death. It should happen as soon as possible after death. Verifying death allows the next steps \u2014 like registering the death and arranging a funeral \u2014 to begin
If you\u2019re unsure what to do, don\u2019t hesitate to call NHS 111, ECHO or speak to the person’s GP. Help is always available.\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n
Q: Do I have to use a funeral director in the UK?<\/summary>\nUsing a funeral director is a choice, not a legal requirement.<\/strong> Many people choose one because it can make things easier during a difficult time, but you can legally carry out all the arrangements yourself.

What Can I Do Myself?<\/strong>
If you decide not to use a funeral director, you can:
Register the death<\/strong> at the local Register Office
Collect the certificate for burial or cremation<\/strong> (the \u201cgreen form\u201d)
Choose a coffin or shroud<\/strong> (there are no legal rules about coffins, as long as it’s safe and dignified)
Arrange transport<\/strong> for the body
Book a burial plot<\/strong> or cremation<\/strong> through your local council or crematorium
Plan and carry out the funeral ceremony<\/strong>

When Might a Funeral Director Be Helpful?<\/strong>
Many people use funeral directors because they can:
Handle the legal paperwork
Care for the person who has died (washing, dressing, storing the body)
Provide transport (hearse)
Help plan and run the ceremony
If the death was unexpected<\/strong> or complex<\/strong>, or if you live far away, a funeral director can ease the pressure.

Is It Difficult to Do It Myself?<\/strong>
It can take more time and effort to arrange a funeral yourself, especially while grieving. But it\u2019s possible \u2014 and can be very personal and meaningful. You can call on the services of a funeral director at any point. Often people choose to keep the body at home for 24-48 hours with support and then a funeral director will take the person in to their care.

There are organisations that can guide you, such as:
The Natural Death Centre<\/a><\/strong>
End of Life Doula UK<\/a><\/strong>

Important Things to Know<\/strong>
You must register the death within 5 days<\/strong> of being advised by the Medical Examiner’s office that you can do so (8 in Scotland)
The green form<\/strong> is needed to arrange a burial or cremation
Crematoria and cemeteries will usually work directly with families
There is no law that says only a funeral director can move or care for the body \u2014 but it must be done with dignity and proper care

In Summary<\/strong>
\u2705 You can<\/strong> organise a funeral yourself
\u2705 You do not<\/strong> need to hire a funeral director however is is often more practical to do so for all or part of the time between death and the funeral
\u2705 If you use a funeral director, you can choose to source flowers, orders of service etc independently. You do not have to use the suppliers they offer you although this can be easier at a difficult time
\u2705 Support and advice is available if you choose the DIY route\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n
Q: What are the options for a funeral service in the UK?<\/summary>\nWhen someone dies, one of the choices you\u2019ll need to make is what kind of funeral service<\/strong> to have. In the UK, there are several options depending on the person\u2019s wishes, your beliefs, and your budget.
You can make the funeral as simple or as personal<\/strong> as you like.

1. Traditional Religious Funeral<\/strong>
A service led by a faith leader<\/strong> (such as a vicar, priest, imam, rabbi, etc.), usually held in a:
Church
Mosque
Temple
Synagogue
Funeral home chapel
Graveside
It often includes prayers, hymns, readings, and blessings. It may be followed by a burial or cremation.

2. Civil Funeral<\/strong>
A civil funeral is non-religious<\/strong>, or includes only a small religious part (like a prayer or hymn). It is led by a civil celebrant<\/strong> or trained speaker.
The focus is on the person\u2019s life, including:
Personal stories
Music
Readings
Tributes from family or friends
This type of service can take place in a crematorium, hall, home, or outdoor space.

3. Humanist Funeral<\/strong>
A fully non-religious<\/strong> service, led by a Humanist celebrant<\/strong>. It celebrates the life of the person without any religious content.
It may include:
A life story
Readings or poems
Personal messages
Music
It\u2019s often chosen by those who did not have religious beliefs.

4. Direct Cremation or Burial (No Service)<\/strong>
This is the simplest and cheapest<\/strong> option. There is no funeral service<\/strong> or ceremony. The body is taken directly for cremation or burial, usually without anyone attending. The ashes can be returned to the family later. Many families choose to hold a memorial or celebration of life<\/strong> separately at a time and place that suits them.

5. Green or Natural Funeral<\/strong>
For those who want an eco-friendly<\/strong> option.
The body is buried in a natural burial ground<\/strong>
A biodegradable coffin<\/strong> or shroud is used
No headstone or formal grave marker
You can still have a service \u2014 either religious, civil, or humanist \u2014 at the site or elsewhere.

6. DIY or Family-Led Funeral<\/strong>
You don\u2019t have to use a funeral director. Some families choose to organise the funeral themselves.
You can:
Care for the person at home
Arrange transport
Hold a service in a place that feels right
This can be more personal and less expensive.

Choosing the Right Option<\/strong>
Think about:
What the person would have wanted
Religious or cultural traditions
Your family\u2019s wishes
Your budget
It\u2019s okay to keep things simple. What matters most is that it feels right for you and honours the person\u2019s memory.

In Summary<\/strong>
Funeral service options in the UK include:
\u2705 Religious funerals
\u2705 Civil or humanist ceremonies
\u2705 Direct cremation or burial
\u2705 Green funerals
\u2705 DIY\/family-led services
There\u2019s no one right way<\/strong> to say goodbye. Choose what feels meaningful and manageable for you.\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n
Q: What are the pros and cons of cremation v burial?<\/summary>\nChoosing between cremation and burial is a personal decision. Some people plan this before they die, while others leave it to family. Here\u2019s a guide to help you understand the main differences<\/strong>, costs<\/strong>, and practical points<\/strong> for each option.

\ud83d\udd25 Cremation<\/strong>
Pros:<\/strong>
\u2705 Generally cheaper<\/strong> than burial
\u2705 More flexible<\/strong> \u2014 ashes can be kept, scattered, or buried later
\u2705 Can have the funeral anywhere<\/strong> (before or after the cremation)
\u2705 Often simpler to organise
\u2705 More eco-friendly<\/strong> than traditional burial (depending on choices)
Cons:<\/strong>
\u274c Some religions or cultures do not allow<\/strong> cremation
\u274c Once done, it can\u2019t be reversed<\/strong>
\u274c Some people find the idea emotionally harder
\u274c May involve waiting times<\/strong> at busy crematoriums

\u26b1\ufe0f What Happens With the Ashes?<\/strong>
After cremation, the ashes are usually given to the next of kin. They can:
Be scattered<\/strong> in a special place
Kept in an urn<\/strong> or other container
Buried in a cemetery<\/strong>, woodland<\/strong>, or private garden<\/strong>
Divided between family members

\u26b0\ufe0f Burial<\/strong>
Pros:<\/strong>
\u2705 Feels more traditional<\/strong> or comforting for some people
\u2705 Provides a permanent grave<\/strong> to visit
\u2705 May be preferred or required by religious faiths<\/strong> (e.g. Islam, Judaism)
\u2705 Can be part of family graves or plots
Cons:<\/strong>
\u274c More expensive<\/strong> \u2013 often double the cost of cremation
\u274c Requires a grave plot<\/strong>, which may not be available nearby
\u274c Ongoing costs<\/strong> (grave upkeep, headstone maintenance)
\u274c Less flexible with timing and location

\ud83d\udcb0 Typical Costs (Estimates in the UK):<\/strong>
Cremation:<\/strong> \u00a33,500\u2013\u00a34,000
Burial:<\/strong> \u00a34,500\u2013\u00a37,000+
(Costs vary by region, funeral type, and extra services)<\/em>

\ud83c\udf3f Environmental Impact<\/strong>
Cremation<\/strong> uses energy but doesn\u2019t take up land
Natural burials<\/strong> (no embalming, eco-coffin) are the most environmentally friendly<\/strong>
Traditional burials use more land, materials, and may include chemicals

\ud83d\udca1 Final Thoughts
There\u2019s no right or wrong choice. Think about:
The person\u2019s wishes<\/strong>
Your family\u2019s beliefs<\/strong>
What feels most comforting
Your budget<\/strong>
If you’re unsure, a funeral director or local council can help explain your options clearly.\n\n\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Q: Who is the Medical Examiner and what is their role?<\/summary>\nWhen someone dies, especially in a hospital or community setting, it\u2019s important that the cause of death is properly checked and recorded. This is where the Medical Examiner (ME)<\/strong> comes in. The process helps make sure everything is done properly, respectfully, and fairly.

What Is a Medical Examiner?<\/strong>
A Medical Examiner<\/strong> is a specially trained independent doctor<\/strong> who reviews the cause of death for people who die from natural causes. They are not the same as a coroner.

The Medical Examiner:<\/strong>
Checks the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)<\/strong>
Talks to the family<\/strong> to explain the proposed cause of death
Makes sure the death was expected and correctly recorded
Looks out for any concerns, errors, or signs that the death needs further investigation. They may speak with the doctor if they feel the cause of death needs to be discussed.

Why Does This Matter?<\/strong>
The Medical Examiner process:
Improves safety<\/strong> and transparency<\/strong>.
Helps spot any possible issues in care or treatment.
Supports families by explaining what happened.
Ensures deaths are recorded fairly and honestly<\/strong>.

What Happens During the Process?<\/strong>
The doctor who cared for the person<\/strong> during their life writes the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. The Medical Examiner reviews<\/strong> this certificate and any relevant hospital or GP notes.

The Medical Examiner or their officer calls the next of kin<\/strong> to explain the cause of death and answer any questions.
If everything is in order, the paperwork is completed so you can register the death and begin funeral arrangements.

Do All Deaths Go Through a Medical Examiner?<\/strong>
Since 9th September 2024, all deaths in the UK are now reviewed by a Medical Examiner.

Deaths do not go through a Medical Examiner if:<\/strong>
The death is being reported to a coroner<\/strong> (for example, if it was sudden, violent, or unclear)
The person died abroad<\/strong>

Do Families Have to Speak to the Medical Examiner?<\/strong>
A short conversation is usually part of the process. The Medical Examiner (or their officer) will:
Explain the proposed cause of death
Ask if you have any concerns or questions<\/strong>
Make sure you feel informed and supported

What If I Have Concerns?<\/strong>
If you\u2019re worried about how your loved one died, or something doesn\u2019t feel right, you can:
Tell the Medical Examiner<\/strong> during your conversation
Raise your concern with the hospital or GP practice
Ask to speak to the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)<\/strong>

In Summary<\/strong>
Medical Examiners review non-coronial deaths in England and Wales. They help ensure causes of death are accurate and families are supported. It\u2019s a simple process and gives you the chance to ask questions or raise concerns.

If you’re unsure about any part of the process, speak to the Medical Examiner\u2019s Office or the healthcare staff involved. They’re there to help.\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n

Q: How might I feel if someone close to me has died?<\/summary>\nWhen someone you love dies, it can be one of the hardest things you ever go through. Everyone feels different \u2014 there\u2019s no \u201cright\u201d way to grieve. You may feel a mix of emotions, and that\u2019s completely normal.

Common Feelings People Have<\/strong>
You might feel:
Shock<\/strong> \u2013 Even if the death was expected, it can still feel unreal.
Sadness<\/strong> \u2013 A deep sense of loss is very common.
Anger<\/strong> \u2013 You might feel angry at the situation, at others, or even at the person who died.
Guilt<\/strong> \u2013 Some people blame themselves or wish they\u2019d said or done things differently.
Numbness<\/strong> \u2013 You may feel nothing at all at first. That\u2019s okay too.
Relief<\/strong> \u2013 Especially if the person had been suffering. This doesn\u2019t mean you didn\u2019t love them.
Loneliness<\/strong> \u2013 Losing someone close can leave you feeling very alone.
These feelings can come and go. Some days may feel better than others. That\u2019s a normal part of grieving.

Physical and Mental Effects<\/strong>
Grief can affect your body and mind too. You might:
Have trouble sleeping
Lose your appetite
Feel very tired
Struggle to concentrate
Feel anxious or low
It\u2019s important to be kind to yourself<\/strong>. Take things one day at a time.

You\u2019re Not Alone<\/strong>
Many people feel like they\u2019re the only one feeling this way. But you are not alone. Talking to someone you trust \u2014 a friend, family member, or GP \u2014 can help. You don\u2019t have to go through it by yourself.

When to Get Help<\/strong>
Grief doesn\u2019t follow a set timeline. But if you\u2019re struggling to cope or feel stuck in sadness for a long time, you might need extra support.
You can:
Speak to your GP<\/strong>
Call a bereavement support charity<\/strong> (like Cruse Bereavement Support \u2013 0808 808 1677)
Join a local grief support group<\/strong>
Getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

In Summary<\/strong>
Grief is personal \u2014 there\u2019s no \u201cnormal\u201d way to feel
You might feel many emotions, or none at all
These feelings will likely change over time
Help and support are available when you need them

If you need someone to talk to right now, don\u2019t wait \u2014 reach out. You\u2019re not alone.\n\n\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n
Q: Where can I find a poem suitable for a funeral?<\/summary>\nHere\u2019s a list of websites that offer suitable poems for funerals<\/strong>, including traditional, religious, modern, and non-religious options. These sites are helpful for finding poems to read at services, include in orders of service, or share with family and friends.

Poem Hunter<\/a><\/strong>
Large collection of classic and modern poems
Searchable by theme (e.g. death, grief, love, remembrance)

The British Humanist Association \u2013 Non-religious Readings<\/a><\/strong>
Non-religious and humanist funeral readings and poems
Support for creating personalised ceremonies

Poetry Foundation<\/a><\/strong>
Extensive archive of published poetry
Searchable by keyword or theme
Includes works by well-known poets like Dylan Thomas and Mary Oliver

Family Friend Poems<\/a>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n

Q: Does a body have to be embalmed in the UK?<\/summary>\n\u274c No \u2013 embalming is optional.<\/strong>
It is not a legal requirement for burial or cremation in the UK. Increasingly fewer people are being embalmed due to concerns over the environmental impact of the process.

\ud83d\udcac What Is Embalming?<\/strong>
Embalming is a process where the body is treated with chemicals to slow down natural changes after death. It\u2019s sometimes called “hygienic treatment” or “preservation.”
It can:
Help keep the body looking more natural for longer
Be used when there is a long delay before the funeral
Be done for open coffin viewings

\u2705 When Might Embalming Be Suggested?<\/strong>
If there will be a public viewing<\/strong> of the body
If the funeral is more than a week or two<\/strong> away
If the person is being transported long distances<\/strong>, especially overseas

\u274c When Embalming Is Not Needed<\/strong>
If the body will be cremated or buried quickly<\/strong>
If the family prefers a natural or eco-friendly funeral<\/strong>
If it goes against religious or personal beliefs<\/strong>
In a direct cremation or burial<\/strong>, where there is no viewing

\ud83c\udf3f Natural Burials<\/strong>
For a green or natural burial<\/strong>, embalming is not allowed<\/strong>, as the chemicals can harm the soil.

\ud83d\udcb7 Costs<\/strong>
Embalming is usually an extra service<\/strong>, costing around \u00a375\u2013\u00a3150<\/strong>, depending on the funeral provider.

\ud83d\udcdd In Summary
\u274c You don\u2019t have to be embalmed<\/strong>
\u2705 It\u2019s your choice<\/strong> (or the family\u2019s)
\u2705 It can be useful for viewings after a period of time or long delays between death and the funeral
\u2705 Not needed for direct or natural funerals

If you’re not sure whether embalming is right for your situation, talk to your funeral director \u2014 or skip it entirely if it doesn’t feel necessary.\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"full-width","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-408","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/408","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=408"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/408\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":423,"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/408\/revisions\/423"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chi-eoln.co.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=408"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}