A Practical Guide for Families in the UK – Archway Funeral Service

Losing someone you love is one of the most difficult experiences in life. Amidst the emotional toll, there are important practical steps that need to be taken—many of them time-sensitive. At Archway Funeral Services, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Below is a simple guide to what needs to be done in the UK when someone passes away.

1. Get a Medical Certificate

The first step is to obtain a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. If the person died at home, contact their GP or call 111. If they passed away in a hospital or care home, the staff will arrange this. In some cases (such as sudden or unexplained deaths), the coroner may need to be involved.

2. Register the Death

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you must register the death within 5 days (8 days in Scotland) at the local Register Office. You’ll need:

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• The Medical Certificate

• Full name, date and place of birth of the deceased

• Last address and occupation

• Details of their spouse or civil partner

• NHS number (if available)

You’ll be given a Death Certificate (you can request extra copies), and a Certificate for Burial or Cremation (the “green form”), which the funeral director will need.

3. Inform Key Organisations

After registering the death, you can use the UK government’s Tell Us Once service (if available in your area). This notifies several departments in one go, including:

• HMRC

• DWP (pensions and benefits)

• DVLA (driver’s licence)

• Passport Office

• Local council (for council tax, electoral register)

You’ll need a reference number from the registrar to access this service.

4. Check for a Will

Try to locate the deceased’s Will as soon as possible. It will name the executor—the person responsible for managing the estate and ensuring the deceased’s wishes are carried out. If there’s no Will, a close relative can apply to become the administrator.

5. Arrange the Funeral

Whether the funeral is traditional, religious, eco-friendly or non-religious, we at Archway Funeral Services can guide you with compassion and clarity. Decisions to consider:

We recommend checking the Will or any written wishes the deceased may have left.

6. Dealing with the Estate

Once the funeral is arranged, the executor or administrator begins managing the deceased’s affairs. This includes:

• Applying for Probate (if necessary)

• Valuing and distributing the estate

• Closing bank accounts

• Paying any debts and taxes

This process can be complex, so consider seeking advice from a solicitor or probate specialist.

7. Look After Yourself

Grief affects everyone differently, and there’s no “right” way to feel. Surround yourself with support—friends, family, or professional counselling if needed. At Archway, we can also connect you with local bereavement support services.

Need Help?

At Archway Funeral Services, we understand how overwhelming things can feel in the days and weeks after a loss. Our team is here to offer professional, personal support—whether it’s planning the funeral, handling paperwork, or simply being a listening ear.

If you have any questions or need to speak with someone, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

📍 Archway Funeral Service – Serving families across Derbyshire

If you are looking to arrange a Derbyshire funeral in Ripley, Heanor, Belper, Crich or the surrounding areas of Derbyshire, please do not hesitate to contact Archway Funeral Service.