Making Funeral Arrangements
One of the main things we're asked as a funeral director is in regards to making funeral arrangements when a loved one passes, so we have put together some information for the different ways this can occur.
At Home
If a person passes away at home expectedly, then you will need to contact the deceased’s GP practice and ask them to attend the house. If out of hours, it may take up to 6 hours for a doctor to attend. The death needs to be verified by a medical professional before the funeral director can be called to remove the deceased into their care.
At Hospital or
A Hospice
If a person passes away in a hospital, whether it was expected or not, the staff at the hospital will explain to you what needs to happen next. You will usually be given a booklet demonstrating that you must make an appointment with the hospital bereavement officer.
A Sudden Death
If someone passes away suddenly (not under medical care), It is likely that in this event, the Coroner will be involved. Therefore, your first point of contact throughout the next few days will be the Coroner’s appointed officer and they will guide you and advise you when you should appoint a funeral director and when the Coroner will release the deceased for the funeral to take place.
Registering a Death
It is required that a death is registered within 5 days before a funeral can take place. This can be done online or at any of the local Register Offices found below.
T
Telford & Wrekin Register Office
Wellington Civic and Leisure Centre, Tan Bank, Wellington
TF1 1LX
01952 382444 register.office@telford.gov.uk
W
Wolverhampton Register Office
The Register Office, Civic Centre, St Peters Square, Wolverhampton
WV1 1RU
0345 678 9016