What to do when a loved one passes away at home (and it is expected)?
It seems like acquaintances pass away at home all too often, we hear “passed away peacefully at home with their family by their side”, but what do you do? Who do you call first? Is there anything to expect? Anything you should be in the know of? It’s something that rarely gets talked about in advance of the death of a loved one but is actually better to know and feel somewhat prepared. Please note, this information is only if their death is expected, for example, they are under palliative care for a terminal illness. If their death is not expected, please call 999 immediately.
When a loved one’s death is expected, you may have a number of healthcare professionals around in the time leading up to their death, such as district nurses, Marie Curie nurses, Macmillan nurses, GP’s and carers. If they are present at the time of your loved one’s death, they will be able to assist with phone calls and preparations and will be at hand to help you cope you with your emotions and comfort you at this time. No matter how expected a death, it is likely to still be an exceptionally challenging moment.
Firstly, you need to call your loved ones’ GP or local doctor as their death needs to be confirmed by the doctor. If they pass away over night or at the weekend, you can call an out-of-hours doctor or NHS 111.
Next, you will need to call your chosen funeral director so they can come and collect your loved one to take them in to their care. They will be able to advise you on things such as registering the death of your loved one and any other preparations. You can ask them to come as soon as possible or wait a few hours should you wish to spend a little more time with your loved one (providing the circumstances are normal, this should be possible). Our article on how to choose a funeral director is here.
When the funeral director arrives, you may wish to step outside of the room if you do not wish to see the preparations or your loved one being moved.
To recap:
1. Call doctor to visit to confirm death and provide medical certificate stating the cause of death
2. Call funeral director to take your loved one into their care
3. Inform close family members
We realise that this is one of the most difficult times and you may feel overwhelmed. For that reason, we have partnered with Cruse bereavement and want you to know that they are there for you to offer bereavement support and advice.
Cruse is the UK’s leading bereavement charity reaching over 100,000 people across the UK each year. They offer support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies and work to enhance society’s care of bereaved people.
For immediate bereavement support contact their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Children and young people can:
· Call the Freephone helpline on 0808 808 1677
· Visit their website designed by and for young people at www.hopeagain.org.uk or
· Email them at hopeagain@cruse.org.uk