What to do after a bereavement

We are extremely sorry for your loss and appreciate this is an incredibly difficult time for you.

This information is designed to give details about the next steps, answer some of your questions and signpost you to the extra help and support that is available.

We will also explain to you the legal aspects that need to take place.

About our bereavement service

At our bereavement office, our staff can offer you advice on local community bereavement support agencies, and can arrange follow up meetings with hospital staff if this is something that would help you.

Our staff coordinate the paperwork which is needed after a person's death, such as the medical cause of death certificate (MCCD) and cremation forms. They also work closely with staff inside and outside the Trust, including:

  • medical and nursing staff
  • funeral directors
  • H.M. Coroner’s office
  • the Registry office.

Contact the bereavement team

Our teams are available to explain everything you need to know about registering your loved one’s death. 

Please call:

  • for Ealing Hospital: 020 8967 5367
  • for Central Middlesex, Northwick Park and St Mark’s Hospitals: 020 8869 2960

or ask for the bereavement team at the main reception of the hospital.

Registering a death

To obtain a death certificate, the death of your loved one needs to be registered.

The doctor who certified the death in hospital will either sign a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) or, where the circumstances are not clear, refer to the Coroner. The completed MCCD will be emailed to the registrar along with your contact details.

You can book an appointment to register the death on the council website:

Preparing for the funeral

Contact your nominated funeral director, they will help you through the process of arranging a funeral and guide you through any preferences you may have.  

A list of industry inspected funeral directors can be found on the:

Your chosen funeral director will collect your loved one from the hospital into their care. You can then speak to them about arranging visiting, dressing and any religious observances. They will work with you to make the final arrangements for your loved one.

Bereavement support

We understand that losing a loved one can feel overwhelming, especially if the death was sudden, untimely and unexpected.

There are a number of organisations who can support you and your family during this distressing time.

National bereavement organisations

Via your local council

Other resources

Once again, please accept our sincere condolences for your loss.