The First Steps
What to do When Someone Dies
For many, this is an unfamiliar journey. We're here to offer guidance and clarity every step of the way. If you're unsure what to do, call us—we’re available 24/7 to help. If you have a funeral plan with us or another provider, there’s nothing you need to do immediately, but please let us know as soon as possible.
Passing at hospital
If your loved one passes away in the hospital, you may or may not be there at the time. Regardless, the deceased will be taken to the hospital mortuary. A medical death certificate (Form 11) will be provided by the attending doctor.
The hospital will send this certificate to the local registrar, who will then contact the next of kin within 4-5 working days to complete the registration by phone. We can only take your loved one into our care after the registration is complete, as investigations may still be ongoing.
We suggest contacting a funeral director as soon as possible so we can assist with your needs and answer any questions you may have.
Passing at home
If a death is expected at home, the first step is to contact your GP or NHS 24. In the case of a sudden death, you should call 999 so that police or paramedics can attend. In some cases, you may need to reach out to the district nurse team.
A medical professional or, in the case of a sudden death, the police will confirm the passing. Once the death is verified, we will take your loved one into our care. After the death is confirmed and your loved one has been removed, a doctor will issue the medical death certificate (Form 11).
If the doctor cannot issue the certificate, they may involve the police, and the case could be referred to the procurator fiscal. We are available to guide you through each step of the process—please contact us if you need assistance.
Passing in care
When a death occurs in a nursing home or hospice, the staff will typically contact the funeral director after the death has been verified. This verification is usually done by a nurse or paramedic, though in some cases, an on-site doctor may issue a full medical death certificate (Form 11). In most instances, the GP will provide the death certificate once they receive the verification from the care facility.
If you were aware that death was imminent, you may have already considered the next steps. Most care facilities don’t have an on-site mortuary, so they will contact us on your behalf. You can choose to stay with your loved one or leave before we arrive.
At that point, we will coordinate with the care staff and complete the necessary paperwork before transporting your loved one to our funeral home.
We are available 24 hours a day
We’re here to be your support, offering a helping hand and guidance through this challenging time.
You can call us 24 hours throughout the week in Maryhill, so please get in touch if you need to chat.