What to Do When Someone Dies
Read time: 4 minutes
Written by Chris Simpson | Funeral Director at Parkgrove Funeral Directors | 22nd February 2025
Chris Simpson | Funeral Director
Losing someone you love is very hard. It can be confusing to know what to do next. In Angus, handling a death means completing several tasks and making funeral decisions. This guide is here to help you. We will show you the steps to take—from registering the death to planning a farewell—and provide information on funeral services in Angus. Knowing what to do can help everything run smoothly and respectfully. This way, families can focus on remembering their loved one. We offer clear advice to support you during this difficult time.
Initial Steps After a Death
Immediate Actions to Take
Call your GP, Nursing Team, or 999 if the death was sudden.
When a death occurs, act quickly but also look after yourself. First, get a medical certificate from a doctor or hospital.
If the death happens at home and was expected, call the deceased’s GP. If it is after hours, call NHS 24.
If the death is unexpected, call 999 immediately.
Once the death is confirmed, contact a funeral director. Parkgrove Funeral Directors can help with the arrangements. Age UK also gives advice on what to do next.
It is okay to take a moment for yourself. Ask family or friends for help if you need it.
Notifying Authorities and Family
After the initial shock, you need to inform the authorities and your family. This can be hard, but it is necessary.
First, tell your close family and friends in person.
Next, let the deceased’s employer or business partners know, if needed.
Finally, contact the local registrar. The death must be registered within 8 days.
For wider notifications, use the Tell Us Once service. This service notifies many government departments at once. It saves time and reduces stress.
Remember to take care of yourself. You can ask trusted family or friends to help with these tasks if you feel overwhelmed.
Understanding Legal Requirements
The legal steps after a death can be complicated, but they are important. In Angus and all of Scotland, you must follow certain legal rules.
Your Funeral Director can assist you with these.
The first task is to register the death within 8 days. You will need to give the registrar the medical certificate and the deceased’s personal details. Often this is sent directly to the registrar from the hospital / GP.
Arranging Funeral Services
Planning a funeral in Angus involves many choices. You need to choose a service provider and personalise the ceremony. This section will help you plan a respectful farewell.
Choosing Funeral Services in Angus
Parkgrove Funeral Directors grounds in the Angus countryside offer a peaceful place to reflect and heal.
Choosing a funeral service is a personal choice. It depends on your budget, culture, religion, and the wishes of the deceased. Take your time to explore all options.
Angus has many funeral services. There are traditional providers and eco-friendly options. Parkgrove Funeral Directors come highly recommended. They can help you make decisions. Compare providers, check their services and prices, and ask for detailed quotes.
Consider these factors:
Services: Do they offer cremation, burial, or memorials?
Reputation: What do other families say about them?
Cultural or religious needs: Can they meet your specific requirements?
Ask questions if you are unsure. Good funeral directors, like those at Parkgrove, will be patient and helpful.
Coordinating with Funeral Homes
After choosing a service provider in Angus, work with them to finalise the funeral details. You will need to make some decisions, such as:
Meet with the funeral director to talk about your preferences and budget.
Decide on burial or cremation if not already chosen.
Choose a coffin and any extra services like flowers or transport.
The funeral home will help with the paperwork and coordinate with cemeteries or crematoriums. They can also help write obituaries and organise donations instead of flowers if you wish.
If you are unsure about anything, ask for help. Reputable directors like those at Parkgrove will explain costs and options clearly.
Personalising the Service
Personalising a funeral service can honour your loved one and comfort those who are grieving. In Angus, there are many ways to reflect the deceased’s personality, beliefs, and wishes.
Think about adding elements that were important to your loved one:
Play their favourite music or include special readings.
Show photos or personal items.
Ask family and friends to share memories.
You might also use an alternative venue, such as an outdoor favourite spot or another place that was important. Many Angus funeral homes, including Parkgrove, can handle unique requests.
There is no single right way to personalise a funeral. The service should feel true to your loved one and offer a space for everyone to remember together.
Support and Resources
Coping with a death involves more than just handling the arrangements. This section shows you emotional and financial support options in Angus. It also covers palliative care for those nearing the end of life.
Accessing Palliative Care in Angus
Palliative care in Angus is meant to improve life quality for those with serious illnesses. It helps with physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
Angus offers several palliative services, including:
Home-based care
Hospice care
Hospital palliative care units
To access these services, talk to your GP or healthcare provider. They can refer you to a palliative care team that will make a personal care plan. Remember, palliative care is not only for the final days. It can help both the patient and their family at any stage of a serious illness.
Emotional Support for Families
Grieving is a complex and personal process. In Angus, many resources can help families during bereavement.
Support Groups: Local groups offer a safe space to share your feelings with others. They are often available at community centres, hospitals, or places of worship.
Professional Counselling: You can get one-on-one help from a counsellor. Your GP can refer you to mental health services, or you can choose private counselling.
Helplines and Online Resources: Organisations like Cruse Bereavement Care offer 24-hour support.
Asking for help is a sign of strength.
Financial Assistance Options
The financial impact of a death can add extra stress. Fortunately, there are several forms of financial help in Angus:
Scottish Funeral Support Payment: A benefit from the Scottish government for those on certain benefits.
Charitable Grants: Some charities, like Funeral Link Dundee, offer grants to help with funeral costs.
Insurance Benefits: Life insurance or death-in-service benefits might be available.
To explore these options:
Check if you are eligible for government benefits.
Contact the deceased’s employer about workplace benefits.
Research charities that offer funeral grants.
Consider speaking to a financial adviser or Citizens Advice. They can help with managing the estate and any debts.
Many Angus funeral directors, like Parkgrove, offer payment plans or advice on cheaper options if money is tight.
By following these steps and using the available support services, you can manage the challenges of a death with more clarity and reassurance.