When Someone Dies

Many people can feel uncertain of the practical things that need to be carried out following a bereavement.

This guide will take you through the initial steps and provide you with support and advice on what you may need to think about when a loved one dies. 

Choosing us as your nominated Funeral Director

Once you have notified us regarding the death of your loved one, we will make suitable arrangements to receive them into our care where we will look after them with respect and dignity. We will also arrange an initial meeting at your convenience where we can sit down and discuss every aspect of the funeral arrangements. Our funeral directors will carry out your chosen wishes carefully and respectfully.

 
 

Registering a death

We are always available to support families at the time of death, however the next of kin are generally responsible for registering a loved one’s death. The following provides information on how to register the death. If you have any questions or queries about the following practical information please do not hesitate to contact us.

In Scotland a Death may be registered?
At any Registrar’s Office in Scotland.

When?
The death must be registered within eight days but it is desirable to have the death registered as soon as possible. A death must be registered before a funeral takes place.

By Whom?
A death is normally registered by a relative, executor or other legal representative or any other person possessing the information needed for the registration.

Documents required by Registrar?

  • The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (Form 11) issued by doctor

  • Deceased’s birth certificate (if available)

  • Deceased’s marriage certificate (if applicable)

  • The deceased's Medical Card (if available)

What documents will Registrar Issue?

  • Form 14 which is to be given to the funeral director

  • Form BD8 document to inform the Department of Work and Pensions

  • An abbreviated certificate (extract)

  • Full certificates may be purchased at the time or at a later date

Telling others about the death

You may wish to tell others about the death and the details of the funeral by placing an announcement in a newspaper whether it be local or national, or even on our social media page.  As part of our service, we can help you with drafting and sending a bereavement announcement to a newspaper. We can also assist after the funeral by placing an acknowledgement in the newspaper to thank those who attended and sent expressions of sympathy, flowers and charitable donations.