What to do When Someone Passes

A Simple Guide to Help You Through a Difficult Time

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience. Understanding what to do next can help bring some clarity during a very difficult time.
As of 9th September 2024, new UK regulations surrounding death certification are in place.

This guide outlines the practical steps to take when someone passes away in Wirral and surrounding areas, helping you manage legal and emotional responsibilities with confidence and care.

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1. Notify the Relevant Authorities

If the death occurs at home:

  • Contact the person’s GP if the death was expected.
  • If it happens outside GP hours, call NHS 111.
  • A medical professional will attend to confirm the death.

If the death occurs in a hospital or care home:

  • Staff will manage initial procedures and contact a doctor to issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD).

If the death is sudden or unexpected:

  • Call 999 immediately.
  • Police and paramedics will attend. The Coroner may be involved if necessary.

2. Contact a Funeral Director

Once the death has been confirmed, call a funeral director to begin the arrangements. Our office number is 0151 645 4396.

Wirral Direct Cremations provides clear, compassionate guidance from the very first step. We will:

  • Collect your loved one with dignity and care.
  • Handle all necessary paperwork and legal steps.
  • Arrange a respectful, unattended cremation service.

3. Understanding the Death Certification Process

Under 2024 legislation, all deaths must be reviewed by a Medical Examiner before a certificate can be issued.

What happens:

  • Medical records are reviewed and the attending doctor is consulted.
  • The Medical Examiner decides whether the certificate can be issued or if the Coroner must be involved.
  • If no further investigation is required, the death certificate is issued.

4. Registering the Death

You must register the death within five days at the Register Office covering the area where the death occurred.

Who can register:

  • A close relative of the deceased.
  • Someone present at the death.
  • The person arranging the funeral (not the funeral director).

You’ll need:

  • The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) to have been issued .
  • Full name, date of birth, address, and marital status of the deceased.
  • Information about surviving spouse/partner.

Register Offices Near Wirral:

Wirral Register Office

Liverpool Register Office

Chester Register Office

Appointments should be booked online or by phone.

5. Arranging the Funeral

Once the death is registered, funeral arrangements can proceed.

At Wirral Direct Cremations, we offer:

  • Direct access to experienced funeral directors — no call centres.
  • Clear, all-inclusive pricing — no hidden extras.

We provide a simple, unattended cremation with the option to hold a personal memorial service at a time that feels right for you.

6. Handling Legal and Financial Matters

After the funeral, you may need to:

  • Notify banks, insurers, and utility providers.
  • Apply for probate (if there is a will).
  • Use the Tell Us Once service to inform DWP, HMRC, DVLA, Passport Office, etc.

More information can be found at: www.gov.uk/after-a-death

7. When the Coroner Is Involved

The Coroner may investigate if:

  • The death was sudden, violent, or unexplained.
  • The person had not been seen by a doctor recently.
  • The death occurred during surgery or under suspicious circumstances.

The death cannot be registered until the Coroner's enquiries are complete. However, interim certificates can be issued if required.

Liverpool Coroner’s Office (Wirral Area):

Bereavement Support Services

Support is available to help you cope with loss:

Cruse Bereavement Support

Wirral Mind

Samaritans (24/7)

NHS Bereavement Helpline

Local Hospitals (Within the Wirral Area)

Contact Wirral Direct Cremations

We’re here 24/7 to support you with care, compassion, and professionalism.

Proudly serving Wirral, Birkenhead, Wallasey, Bebington, West Kirby, Hoylake, Heswall and surrounding areas.