When someone passes away you should register their death at the Registrar’s Office within the district where the death has occurred. A death must be registered within five days of it occurring, unless the Coroner is investigating the circumstances relating to the death. In certain circumstances the five day period can be extended. The death should registered by a near relative or executor. When the coroner isn’t involved, a Doctor will issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). This needs presenting to the registrar along with a birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), medical card and NHS numbers, if they are available.

The information required by the registrar will include the full name of the deceased and their maiden surname if they had been a married woman, and any previous names used. You will also need to know their usual address, date and place of birth, the date and place of death and whether they were in receipt of a pension from public funds. The registrar will also require their occupation and, if the deceased person was a married woman or widow, the full name and occupation of her husband. You will also need to give your name, address and details of your relationship to the deceased. Please have these details ready as they will be required to register the death.