What To Do When A Loved One Passes Away
When a loved one passes away, emotions are high and the ability to think clearly may be hindered. Many people are unaware of what and how to arrange the next steps. Thankfully, we will outline the process and support you along the way, after all, no one should walk this path alone.
When it is expected at home, hospital or care facility
At home:
When a loved one passes away at home, the first thing to do is to call the loved one's treating doctor (usually the GP) or 000. The doctor or Paramedic will then issue a legalised Medical Cause of Death Certificate.
In hospital/care facility:
When a loved one passes away in a hospital or a care facility, the nursing staff or the treating doctors will organise and arrange the immediate arrangements. They will also arrange the Medical Cause of Death Certificate.
The next step is to contact a funeral director, who will organise the next steps: see the “first step in arranging a funeral” below.
When it is unexpected, Traumatic or accidental
When a person passes away in suspicious circumstances, apparent suicide or in an accident:
The first thing is to call an ambulance and the police.
If a cause of death cant be determined or the person has suspicious death, the police or medical team will organise and assess the need for the coroner to be involved.
The coroner will assess the facts and determine a cause of death; this may involve a verity of tests and examinations, including a postmortem examination. The body of your loved one will remain with the coroner until the coroner gives clearance for your loved one to be released.
The first step in arranging a funeral is to Call or Email us
Once you call or email, one of our caring staff members will contact you and discuss the process, answer all your questions and start the process of arranging your loved one's funeral.