These pages are here to help you through both the practical and emotional challenges that follow the loss of a loved one.
Bereavement is something most of us face at some point in our lives, yet it is rarely spoken about in everyday life. Because of this, many people find themselves unsure of what to do next, or how to cope in the days that follow.
Grief affects everyone differently. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and no fixed timescale for coming to terms with a loss. Some people may feel overwhelmed by practical tasks, while others may find those tasks give them focus at difficult moments.
The information in these pages is designed to guide you step by step through what needs to be done after a death. This includes registering a death, informing organisations, and dealing with personal and financial matters. We also include guidance on grief and where to find support.
You do not need to read everything at once. Take what you need, when you need it, and return when you are ready. Your funeral director is also here to support you through each stage.
Bereavement is something most of us face at some point in our lives, yet it is rarely spoken about in everyday life. Because of this, many people find themselves unsure of what to do next, or how to cope in the days that follow.
Grief affects everyone differently. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and no fixed timescale for coming to terms with a loss. Some people may feel overwhelmed by practical tasks, while others may find those tasks give them focus at difficult moments.
The information in these pages is designed to guide you step by step through what needs to be done after a death. This includes registering a death, informing organisations, and dealing with personal and financial matters. We also include guidance on grief and where to find support.
You do not need to read everything at once. Take what you need, when you need it, and return when you are ready. Your funeral director is also here to support you through each stage.
Practical Advice
People and Organisations to Inform
There are various people, companies and other interested parties who need to be informed of the death. If the deceased lived alone, someone should be informed as soon as possible so that support and services can be put in place.
It can feel like a long list, but you do not need to do it all at once. Most organisations will understand and guide you through what they need.
- Local social services, meals on wheels, home care, and transport services should be told so any care or visits can be stopped or reviewed
- The GP (family doctor) and dentist should be informed so medical records can be updated
- Any hospital departments involved in their care should also be notified
- HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) should be contacted to stop or adjust tax, pensions, and benefits
- Any employer or trade union should be informed so work records and any payments can be closed or arranged
- Schools, colleges, or employers should be told if a child, student, or close family member is affected. They can offer support during this time
- Banks, building societies, and credit card providers should be contacted as soon as possible to protect accounts and prevent fraud
- Insurance companies, including car, home, and life insurance, will need to be notified to start any claims or policy changes
- Utility companies and telephone or broadband providers should be informed so accounts can be closed or transferred
- Royal Mail can help with redirecting or stopping post to prevent mail building up
- Local newspapers or subscription services should be cancelled if they were being used
- Landlord or local housing department should be told if the person lived in rented or council housing
- Council tax office should also be notified so the account can be updated or closed
- Digital accounts, such as email, social media, or online subscriptions, may also need attention. Some can be memorialised or closed depending on the service
It can feel like a long list, but you do not need to do it all at once. Most organisations will understand and guide you through what they need.
Returning Documents, Medicines and Personal Items
After a bereavement, there are a number of documents and personal items that may need to be returned, cancelled, or dealt with. There is no need to rush this. Take things one step at a time, and ask for help if you need it.
If you are unsure, your funeral director or local services can help guide you.
- The deceased’s passport should be returned to HM Passport Office. It will be officially cancelled once received
- Driving licence and vehicle registration documents should be returned to DVLA so records can be updated
- Memberships and subscriptions are usually cancelled directly with each organisation. Some may ask for a copy of the death certificate
- Library books or borrowed items can simply be returned when convenient. Libraries are used to handling this
- NHS equipment, such as walking aids or care items, should be returned to the hospital, clinic, or community equipment service that supplied it
- Medicines kept at home should be returned to a local pharmacy for safe disposal. There is no need to rush this, but they should not be kept or used
- Help with costs or benefits may be available. GOV.UK or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can explain what support may apply
If you are unsure, your funeral director or local services can help guide you.