In Times of Bereavement
Non-urgent advice: In Times of Bereavement
Bereavement is something that touches every life, yet when it happens, it can feel deeply personal, isolating, and overwhelming. “In Times of Bereavement” aims to provide clear, compassionate guidance on what support is available through your GP surgery and the wider community. Whether you are experiencing a recent loss or continuing to navigate grief over time, this information below explains what happens after a death, how the Medical Examiner Office (MEO) is involved, and where you can find support.
What to do after a death?
After someone passes away, there are a number of legal and medical steps that need to be completed before the death can be formally registered. Many of these are now carried out on your behalf, and you will be gently guided through each stage of the process.
In most cases, there is no need for you to visit the GP practice to collect paperwork, allowing you space to focus on yourself and those around you at this difficult time.
The Medical Examiner & Death Certification Process
Medical Examiner and Death Certification: What You Need to Know
After a person dies, there are important steps to confirm the cause of death and complete the necessary legal documentation. This process is designed to be thorough, respectful, and supportive for those who are bereaved.
What is a Medical Examiner?
A Medical Examiner is a senior doctor who was not directly involved in the person’s care. Their role is to independently review the circumstances of the death, ensuring that the cause is accurate and that the process has been carried out appropriately. This helps provide reassurance to families and maintains high standards of care.
What does the Medical Examiner do?
The Medical Examiner will review the medical records and discuss the case with the doctor who was responsible for the patient’s care. They may also speak with the next of kin or a representative of the family. This conversation is an opportunity to ask questions, raise any concerns, and better understand what has happened.
What is the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)?
The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death is the official document completed by a doctor, stating the cause of death. This certificate is required to register the death.
How is the process managed?
In most cases, the GP or hospital doctor will complete the MCCD and send it directly to the Medical Examiner for review. Once confirmed, the certificate is sent electronically to the local register office. You will then be able to arrange an appointment to formally register the death.
Do I need to collect any paperwork?
No. Most of the documentation is handled electronically between the GP practice, Medical Examiner’s office, and the registrar. You will be informed when you can proceed with registering the death.
Who can I speak to if I have questions?
You will usually be contacted by the Medical Examiner’s office. If you have any questions or concerns at any stage, you can speak openly with them, or contact the GP practice for further guidance and support.
We understand this can be a difficult and emotional time. These processes are in place to support you and to ensure everything is handled with care, clarity, and respect.
What happens after a death?
1. Notification of the death
The death is reported by the hospital, GP practice, care home, or another healthcare professional.
2. Review by the Medical Examiner
The Medical Examiner:
- Reviews relevant medical records
- Considers the circumstances leading up to the death
- Reviews the proposed cause of death
3. Contact with the bereaved family
A member of the Medical Examiner Office may contact you to:
- Explain the cause of death in plain language
- Check whether you have any questions or concerns
- Ask if anything about the death feels unexpected or unclear
This contact is not an investigation and does not suggest that something has gone wrong.
4. Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)
Once the Medical Examiner is satisfied:
- The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) is completed
- The certificate is sent electronically to the Register Office
You do not need to collect the certificate from the GP practice.
5. Registering the death
The Register Office will advise you on how to formally register the death and arrange an appointment if needed.
Only once the death is registered can funeral arrangements proceed.
When is the Coroner involved?
A coroner becomes involved when a death cannot be clearly explained or requires further investigation under the law.
In general, a death will be referred to a coroner if:
- The cause of death is unknown or uncertain
- The death was sudden and unexpected
- It may have been due to an accident, injury, or violence
- The person had not been seen by a doctor recently
In these situations, a doctor is not able to issue a death certificate straight away. Instead, the coroner will review the information and decide whether further investigation is needed. This may include a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death.
If a death is referred to the coroner, you will be informed about what is happening and guided through the process. While this can feel unsettling, it is a routine part of ensuring that deaths are properly understood and recorded.
Can I raise concerns?
Yes, you can raise concerns at any point during the process, and you are encouraged to do so.
You can:
- Ask questions about the cause of death
- Request clarification in plain language
- Raise concerns if something does not feel right
Raising concerns will not delay funeral arrangements.
Do I need to contact the GP practice?
Usually, no.
Once the Medical Examiner process has started:
- GP practices cannot issue death certificates directly
- They may also be waiting for confirmation from the MEO
If you are unsure who to contact, our practice team can help signpost you.
Getting support following a bereavement
Losing someone can be incredibly difficult, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
If you’ve recently been bereaved, or are continuing to cope with a loss, support is available. Your GP surgery can help guide you to services that offer emotional support, practical advice, and someone to talk to when you need it most.
You may also find help through local bereavement services, charities, or counselling support. Reaching out can feel hard, but it can make a difference.
If you feel you would benefit from support, please contact the practice—we are here for you.
Some websites that you may find helpful, are:
What to do after someone dies: Register the death - GOV.UK
Key points to remember:
The Medical Examiner system is routine and independent.
It improves transparency, safety, and accuracy.
Families are encouraged to ask questions.
Most deaths are registered without delay.
Page created: 23 April 2026