Who can register a death?
The person required to register the death is usually:
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A relative of the deceased (whether or not they were present at the death);
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A person present at the death;
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The person who is going to make the funeral arrangements.
For more information, please telephone the register office.
What will I need to know?
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When and where the death occurred.
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The forenames and surname of the deceased (and maiden surname if the deceased was a woman who had married).
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The date and place of birth and usual address.
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The occupation (and if the deceased was a married woman or a widow, the name and occupation of her husband).
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If the deceased was married, the date of birth of the surviving spouse is also required.
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Whether the deceased was in receipt of a pension or allowance from public funds.
The funeral
It is advisable that you are in contact with the bereavement office before you begin to make funeral arrangements. Once you have registered the death at the registrar's office you will be given the burial or cremation order (green form). This should then be taken to the funeral director of your choice.
As prices vary considerably it is common to contact more than one funeral director for a written quote for their services. The funeral director will advise and help you arrange the funeral of your choice. It may be that the deceased has given instructions, either in a Will or to someone personally as to their last wishes.
The choice of burial or cremation may also depend on cost or whether there is a family grave. The funeral director will arrange for a local priest, minister or person of your choice to conduct the service.
Help with funeral costs
Funerals can be expensive. If you receive income support, family tax credits or housing benefit, you may be able to get a payment from the social fund to help pay for the funeral.
Further advice can be obtained from the Department of Works and Pensions.
