Hey There
Welcome to our Help and Advice section, where we aim to support you through the journey of funeral planning. Here, you'll find valuable information and resources designed to improve your understanding of the planning process and preparations for the day.
Help and Advice - FAQs
Our goal: is to provide clarity and guidance, ensuring you feel informed and empowered during this important time.
What to do when someone dies
The death of a family member, whether sudden or expected, can be difficult to deal with and upsetting for obvious reasons.
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Please find guidance below on what to do depending on the circumstances. If you have questions or find this overwhelming please call us for advice.
Advice for what happens before a funeral
When someone dies at home
If the death was expected then call the doctor (the GP) of the person who has died. They will send a doctor to confirm the death and issue a Medical Certificate of Death. If the surgery is closed they will still visit but you will normally get the certificate the next day.
You do not have to wait for the certificate to be issued before you call your funeral director, as long as the death has been verified by a professional we are available 24/7.
If the death was unexpected or the person has not seen their GP for 28 days
Call an ambulance on 999. The ambulance operator will advise you on what to do. If the cause of death is uncertain then the body will be taken to the coroners so that a post-mortem can be completed. This is an investigation into the death. Once complete the Coroner will issue the medical certificate of death.
What to do if someone dies in hospital
The hospital will provide the medical certificate and look after the body until you instruct a funeral director to collect them.
Devon registration Office
Address: Devon Registration Services, Larkbeare House, Topsham Road, Exeter, EX2 4NG
Telephone: 0345 155 1002
Email: register@devon.gov.uk
Bereavement Support
Please see below a list of useful organisations and contacts. If the help you need is not listed please call us for advice and we will do our best to assist you.