When someone dies, there are several important steps to take. Here is a general outline of what to do:

1. Inform the Relevant Authorities: If the death occurs at home and was expected, you should contact the deceased person’s GP or the attending medical professional who can provide a medical certificate of cause of death. If the death is sudden, unexpected, or occurs in a hospital, hospice, or care home, the staff will guide you through the necessary procedures.
2. Register the Death: Within five days of the death, you must register it at the local register office. You will need the medical certificate of cause of death, so make sure you have obtained it beforehand. The register office will provide you with the necessary documents for the funeral and other arrangements.
3. Arrange the Funeral: Contact a funeral director to make the necessary funeral arrangements. They will guide you through the process and help you organize the funeral, including decisions on burial or cremation, the choice of a coffin or urn, and other arrangements such as transportation and ceremony details.
4. Notify Relevant Parties: Inform family members, friends, and any relevant organizations or institutions, such as employers, banks, and insurance companies, about the death. This will ensure that necessary notifications are made and any relevant procedures, such as settling accounts or initiating insurance claims, can be followed.
5. Organize the Estate: If the deceased person had a will, the appointed executor should begin the process of administering the estate according to their wishes. If there is no will, the rules of intestacy apply, and the next of kin should seek legal advice on how to proceed.
6. Notify Government Agencies: Contact relevant government agencies, such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), to inform them of the death. This will help ensure that any necessary benefits or tax-related matters are addressed appropriately.

It’s worth noting that this is a general overview, and the specific steps and procedures may vary depending on the circumstances. It is advisable to consult official government resources or seek professional guidance from a solicitor or funeral director to ensure that you follow the correct procedures in your situation.