What to do when a loved one dies

What to do when a loved one dies

Losing someone you love is one of life’s most difficult moments. Even when a death is expected, the practical steps that follow can feel overwhelming.

At Lincolnshire Co‑op, we’ve supported local families for generations, and we know how important it is to have clear, compassionate guidance at a time when everything feels uncertain.

This gentle guide walks you through what happens next, the decisions you may need to make, and the support available to you; every step of the way.

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1. Take a moment to breathe

Before anything else, allow yourself a moment. Grief can bring shock, confusion and a sense of unreality. There is no right way to feel. You don’t need to rush. When you’re ready, the practical steps can begin.

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2. Contact the appropriate people

What you need to do first depends on where the death occurred:

If your loved one dies at home

Contact the GP or the out‑of‑hours medical service.

A doctor will confirm the death and advise you on the next steps.

If the death occurs in a hospital or care home

Staff will guide you through the process and contact the necessary professionals on your behalf.

If the death is unexpected

Emergency services should be called.

The coroner may become involved, and you’ll be kept informed throughout.

No matter the circumstances, you can contact your local Lincolnshire Co‑op funeral director at any time. We’re here to support you from the very first call.

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3. Bringing your loved one into our care

Once the doctor has confirmed the death, you can ask us to bring your loved one into our care.

Our team will handle this with dignity and respect, whether it’s during office hours or at any time of day or night.

We’ll look after them at one of our local funeral homes, where they will be cared for gently and professionally until the funeral takes place.

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4. Registering the death

A death must be registered within five days in England and Wales.

You’ll need:

• The medical certificate of cause of death
• Basic personal details about your loved one
• The registrar will provide the documents needed to proceed with the funeral arrangements.

If you’re unsure about anything, we can guide you through what to expect.

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5. Thinking about the funeral

When you feel ready, we’ll help you begin planning the funeral. This can be as simple or as personalised as you wish. Many families find comfort in choosing elements that reflect the life, values and personality of their loved one.

You may want to consider:

Type of funeral

• An attended funeral
• Whether this is a simple or traditional service
• A direct cremation
• A bespoke or themed farewell

Coffins and caskets

From traditional wood to willow, cardboard, American‑style caskets or fully personalised pictograph designs, there are many meaningful options.

Transport

Whether you prefer a classic hearse, a limousine for family, or something unique such as a horse‑drawn or motorcycle hearse, we’ll help you choose what feels right.

Floral tributes

Our florists can create everything from simple arrangements to bespoke designs inspired by hobbies, favourite places or cherished memories.

Obituaries and donations

We offer online obituaries through MuchLoved, giving family and friends a place to share memories, leave messages and make donations in honour of your loved one.

Memorials and lasting tributes

Many families take comfort in creating a lasting place of remembrance.

We offer:

• Headstones and memorial masonry
• Renovation of existing stones
• Eco‑friendly outdoor memorials
• Remembrance benches, bird boxes and crosses
• Keepsake jewellery, memory bears and personalised pins
• Ashes caskets, scatter tubes and memorial seeds

These personal touches can help you honour your loved one in a way that feels meaningful and unique.

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Looking after yourself

We’re here when you need us

If you’ve recently lost someone, or if you’re planning ahead, your local Lincolnshire Co‑op funeral director is here to help. We’ll take the time to understand your wishes, answer your questions and support you with compassion and care.

We’ll walk with you through every step.