Perfect Serenity - What to Do

When any death occurs, families have a number of duties to carry out. The process varies to a degree depending on where the person was at the time of their passing. Also there are times when Her Majesty's Coroner will need to be involved.

This page is intended as a guide, but the best course if in doubt is to call one of our experienced staff on 07050 138007 where the lines are open 24 hours a day.

Different circumstances require a different response

There are three main sets of guidelines depending on whether death occurred:

• At Home
• In a Hospital
• In a Nursing or Residential Home

Perfect Serenity - At Home

On every occasion either the GP or the duty doctor must be contacted to attend and confirm the death. Once the doctor has indicated, a Cause of Death Certificate will be issued. Then we can remove the deceased to the Chapel of Rest.

Perfect Serenity - At Hospital

Shortly after death, the deceased will be taken to the hospital mortuary. If you wish to be taken to the mortuary to see your loved one, please telephone the hospital to make an appointment. Most hospitals will accommodate such requests.

Perfect Serenity - In a Home

A qualified doctor will be required to confirm the death of the deceased. Before they are moved, on most occasions the duty officer would call the Funeral Director who will then move the deceased to their Chapel of Rest.

Perfect Serenity - HM Coroner

The Coroner is responsible for investigating deaths where the:

Person has not been seen by a doctor within 14 days before death
• Death was due to an accident or under suspicious circumstances
• The cause of death was uncertain
• Death occurred while the patient was undergoing an operation
• Death was caused by an industrial disease

In most cases the coroner's involvement is a formality and should not delay the funeral. The coroner will keep you informed of the necessary procedures.In most cases the coroner's involvement is a formality and should not delay the funeral. The coroner will keep you informed of the necessary procedures.