There for you at every step
When a loved one passes away, it can be hard to cope with the practicalities that are required, or to even know where to begin. At Heritage Funeral Services, we will support and guide you through the necessary steps with compassion, doing what we can to take away the burden to allow you to grieve.
What to Do After a Loved One Passes Away
There are some unavoidable steps that must be taken after your loved one passes away. We have covered some of the important information below to help you understand the process, but if you need any help, please reach out and we will be happy to help.
Registering the Death
In Scotland, once you have received the medical death certificate (from the doctor or hospital), you must register the death at a local registration office. If you can, it is helpful to bring as much documentation with you as possible such as the deceased’s birth and marriage certificates, their NHS card (or number) and any documents related to their government pensions or allowances.
Once you have registered the death you will receive some paperwork including an official extract of the death entry certificate, and a document called ‘Form 14’. This is the part that you bring to us as soon as possible to allow us to help you with the next steps.
Procurator Fiscal Involvement
The Procurator Fiscal is a public prosecutor in Scotland responsible for investigating all sudden, suspicious, accidental, unexpected and unexplained deaths. If your loved one’s passing has been referred to the Procurator Fiscal, you cannot register the death until they grant permission and issue the death certificate. However, you can still contact us to discuss funeral arrangements and begin to make plans. We have the experience to answer your questions and support you through the process, while helping you to organise what you can, so that when the time comes to book the funeral, you can move as quickly as you are comfortable with.
We can also point you towards further support, whether that be practical advice, such as the official Scottish Government guide on what you need to do, or something for your emotional wellbeing, such as grief counselling. Make the most of our knowledge and let us take some of the overwhelm away.
Here when you need us most
Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time, day or night. Our team is available to answer your questions, offer guidance, and support you through this difficult time.