Frequently asked Questions
These are some of the questions we are frequently asked when somebody dies. If you don't see the answer to your question please give us a call and we will be happy to help you.
What do when death occurs?
If death occurs at home
Telephone the doctor, who will need to visit to certify death. Contact G Harries & Sons; we will call to convey the deceased to one of our conveniently located Chapels of Rest, any time at your request and convenience. We will then visit you at home, to discuss the funeral arrangements and advise you of the registration procedures (below).
If death occurs in hospital or Nursing Home
We will arrange to convey the deceased to our Chapel of Rest. We will either visit you at home, or you can call at our office, to discuss the funeral arrangements and advise you of registration procedures.
Registration Procedure
A death must be registered in the district in which it has occurred, within 5 days. The doctor's Certificate of Death should be taken to the Registrar's Office with, if possible, the Medical Card and Birth Certificate of the Deceased. An appointment must be made to attend registrar where the following information will be required:
- Death Certificate
- Whether it is to be cremation or burial
- Date of death
- The full name and surname (and the maiden surname if the deceased was a woman who had been married)
- Medical Card or NHS number and NI number or a Photo ID
- Date of birth and place of birth
- Last occupation of deceased
- Their usual address
- If the deceased was married, the name, date of birth and occupation of the surviving widow/widower
- If deceased was a widow/widower then the name and occupation only
In return the Registrar will issue a GREEN FORM which is required by us before the funeral can take place, a White Form to cancel state pension and copies of Death Certificate as required (extra copies are chargable at £11.00 each)
If the death is referred to the Coroner, it would be advisable to contact us so that provisional arrangements can be made prior to the Coroner giving permission for the registration and funeral to take place.
Where do I collect the medical death certificate?
Where do I register the death?
How many copies of the death certificate will I need?
When do I have to register by?
Can I bring in clothing for the deceased to be dressed in?
Am I able to put personal items into the coffin?
Burial or Cremation? Some facts:
Do I have to have a religious ceremony?
Most funerals in the UK follow traditional religious practices with a typical service taking approx. 20-30 minutes. In some cases this may extend to over an hour.
However there is also the option of a secular service which would include poetry, music and an appreciation of the deceased’s life. We are able to arrange a secular officiant for you.
Can I get help with funeral expenses?
Funeral Expenses Payment (also called a Funeral Payment) maybe available if you get certain benefits. For more information please Get help with funeral costs from the Government website.