You have supported and encouraged me for five and a half years in so many ways. You were there to give me strength and courage to take the next hurdle. You have comforted me through my tears and sadness and you have been patient when I was frustrated or angry. You've been my friend. Thank you so very much. – Family member
The death of a family member is emotionally distressing and can be even more difficult when the death is unexpected. Most people will have no idea about the practical tasks that need to be sorted out and it’s hard to make sure all the necessary information regarding the death is passed on to those that need it.
Below is a checklist of the different organisations, authorities and people that need to be kept up to date with information. The list gives you the option of making a note of who you have been in touch with either in writing or directly (in person or by phone). You may not need to contact all of them, and some might not be relevant to your family, but try and find out who you need to be in touch with. Talk to your INQUEST caseworker, solicitor or other advisors if you are unsure.
| Organisation | Phone number | Wrote to or spoke in person |
| Coroner | ||
| Funeral Parlour | ||
| Bank account(s) | ||
| Credit card companies | ||
| Mortgage provider | ||
| Dept of Work and Pensions (DWP) | ||
| School or college | ||
| Benefits Agency | ||
| Employer | ||
| Utility Companies (Gas, Electricity, Water) | ||
| Housing Association / Landlord | ||
| Insurance Company | ||
| Council / Electoral Register | ||
| Doctor | ||
| Hospital | ||
| Dentist | ||
| Social Worker | ||
| Probation Officer | ||
| DVLA | ||
| Tax Office | ||
| Royal Mail (for mail redirection) | ||
| Trade Union or other Professional Association | ||
| IPCC, Police or Primary Care Trust | ||
| MP |
If you are in any doubt about who needs to be contacted you can get help at the following websites:
Bereavement Advice (free phone 0800 258 5556)
ITC legal (for help with probate freephone 0800 0132014)
Click here to download a copy of the “Giving information” table as an editable WORD document.
