When someone dies at home or in a care home

If the death was unexpected
If the death was anticipated
     and the cause known and of natural causes
     and the doctor is unsure about the actual cause of death

If the death was unexpected

You should dial 999 and ask for an ambulance immediately. The operator will give you instructions to carry out resuscitation if possible. When the paramedics arrive, they will carry out resuscitation and/or confirm the death.

You should also ask for the police immediately, leaving the area untouched, except for any action needed for resuscitation.

The police will arrange for the body to be moved by a funeral director acting for the coroner (or procurator fiscal in Scotland).  

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If the death was anticipated

You should contact the deceased's GP or nearest doctor. If death occurred during the night, you do not need to contact the doctor until the following morning unless you want to.

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If the cause of death is known and from natural causes

The doctor will issue the documents that allow you to register the death.

You may call a funeral director of your choice as soon as you are ready. Funeral directors provide a 24-hour service and can arrange for the deceased to be taken to a funeral home at any time - day or night.

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If the doctor is unsure about the actual cause of death

Even if it was clearly from natural causes, or if the deceased died suddenly and had not been under a doctor's care during the past 14 days, he/she will contact the coroner who may order a post mortem examination.

This will determine the cause of death and provide the necessary forms and certificates.

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