In Times Of Bereavement

Please click the link for the below form:

Bereavement Support and Checklist Oakfield.docx

Dear Family,

 

We are very sorry to hear about your bereavement. 

We understand that this must be a difficult time for you and that dealing with personal loss is uniquely difficult.

 

Should you feel that Oakfield Health Centre can assist you in any way, we do have a Care Coordinator who can provide you with bereavement information and support.

You can access this service by calling Reception on 01474 537 123 or email us at oakfield.practice@nhs.net

Please see below our Step-By-Step Checklist to help support families in this difficult time.

If you have any queries or concerns, please do contact us - Oakfield Health Centre

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WHEN SOMEONE DIES – STEP-BY-STEP CHECKLIST FOR FAMILIES

This checklist is designed to guide you through the first steps after a loved one dies. Not all steps may apply to your situation.

First 24 Hours

☐ Death confirmed by a doctor or healthcare professional.
☐ Coroner informed if the death is unexpected or unexplained.
☐ Immediate family and close friends have been informed.
☐ Funeral director contacted and arrangements started.
☐ Personal belongings collected from hospital, hospice, or care setting.
☐ Important documents located (ID, NHS number, will, funeral plan).

Within the First 5 Days

☐ Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) completed by doctor (unless Coroner involved).
☐ Appointment made to register the death at the local register office.
☐ Information gathered for registration:

• Full name of the deceased
• Date and place of birth
• Last address
• Occupation
• Spouse or partner details
  ☐ Copies of the death certificate requested (usually 5–10).
  ☐ Tell Us Once service used to notify government departments (HMRC, DWP, DVLA, passport office, local council).

Funeral Arrangements

☐ Burial or cremation decided.
☐ Date, time, and location of the funeral service confirmed.
☐ Readings, music, or religious elements chosen.
☐ Family and friends informed of funeral arrangements.

Practical Matters

☐ Property secured (locks checked, valuables safe).
☐ Pets cared for.
☐ Post redirected if necessary.
☐ Immediate appointments or services cancelled.

Financial & Administrative Tasks

☐ Banks and building societies notified.
☐ Pension providers contacted.
☐ Insurance companies informed.
☐ Mortgage provider, landlord, or housing association notified.
☐ Utility providers contacted (gas, electricity, water, phone, internet).

Estate & Legal Matters

☐ Will located (if one exists).
☐ Executor or responsible person identified.
☐ Probate advice sought if required.

Important Contacts

• Funeral Director: ____________________________________
• Register Office Appointment: _________________________
• Executor / Legal Contact: ____________________________
• GP / Hospital Contact: _______________________________
• Other Important Numbers: ____________________________

Notes:

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Immediate bereavement support for loss and suicide is available through specialised UK charities offering helplines, counseling, and support groups:

Cruse Bereavement Support: Offers counseling and support, including a helpline (0808 808 1677) and specific support for young people (Hope Again).

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS): Helpline (0300 111 5065, 9am-9pm Mon-Fri) and local support groups