What to do after someone dies and bereavement support

There are a range of things that need to be done after someone dies.

Legally, a death must be registered within five days in the registration district where the death occurred. If the death is referred to the coroner this may be extended and the Coroner’s Office will be in touch with you to confirm what will happen next.

Download a flowchart providing an overview of what to expect and potential timescales.

Bereavement support

Grief can be overwhelming and a number of organisations offer support services so that you do not have to deal with this on your own. These include: 

  • Cruse Bereavement Support – offers face-to-face, telephone, email and online support for anyone who has experienced a loss.
  • Dying Matters – resources to help people talk more openly about dying, death and bereavement, and to make plans for the end of life.
  • The Good Grief Trust – a charity run by bereaved people, helping all those experiencing grief in the UK. Provides information and stories about grief and bereavement, including a map of UK bereavement services.
  • Hub of Hope – database of mental health services in the UK, including community, charity, private and NHS mental health support.
  • Edward's Trust - this leaflet details the support the Trust offers which covers parents bereaved of their child and children or young people aged between 10 and 24 years who are bereaved of a parent, grandparent, significant carer, sibling or friend. 
  • Sue Ryder Grief Support - expert information and advice that can help you or someone close to you cope with grief and deal with the practical issues after someone has died. Access a range of support including free video counselling, an online community, plus advice and resources.
  • SANDS – Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Charity 

The bereavement, loss and grief leaflet provides a range of information on support across Sandwell 

Funeral costs and support  

When someone dies it can be a very distressing time for those who will be making the funeral arrangements, especially if there are concerns about how the funeral will be paid for.

It is normally a partner, executor or other family member who would be responsible for making funeral arrangements for a deceased person, and they would also be responsible for the costs. If there are concerns about how you are going to pay for a funeral, it is important that you discuss this with your chosen funeral director as soon as possible, as once you have appointed a funeral director, and have entered into a contract with one; you are responsible for their costs.

Help with paying for a funeral

You may be entitled to a funeral payment from the Social Fund, if you or a partner is receiving certain benefits, such as Income Support, income based Jobseeker's Allowance, income related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credits, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, Working Tax Credits or Child Tax credit.

Further information about funeral payments, including an application form, can be found on the Government's website.

Ending a council tenancy after a relative has died

Find advice on ending a council tenancy after a relative has died.