If your loved one has died in a care home, it can be a difficult and emotional experience. While care home staff are there to help, knowing what to expect can make things a little easier during this difficult time.
Many Care Homes keep notes on file about residents and their families’ wishes, for use in the event that a resident dies. These notes might include details of which family member to contact in the event of your loved one dying, and whether the family wish to be informed immediately if the death occurs in the middle of the night. It’s also helpful for the care home to know which funeral home they should contact at the appropriate time.
What Happens Immediately After The Death?
If you weren’t present when your loved one passed away, the care home staff will contact you as soon as possible.
The staff will contact your loved one’s GP on your behalf to come out to confirm the death. Occasionally, if a Registered Nurse or Paramedic is already in attendance, it may not be necessary for a doctor to attend. Once the GP has confirmed the death, they will share details with the Medical Examiner, as an independent senior Doctor.
If it is clear that the death was expected, the attending doctor or medical professional will give verbal permission for the deceased to be transferred into the care of the Funeral Director.
If there are any questions about the cause of the death, such as whether it was sudden or unexpected, they will refer the death to the coroner.
What Happens Next?
The care home staff will usually help you notify a funeral director, who will take your loved one into their care. In the meantime, they will ensure your loved one is treated with dignity, often moving them to a private room until arrangements are made.
Spending Time with Your Loved One
If you wish to spend time with your loved one after their passing, care home staff will usually accommodate this. You may want to sit quietly, say a final goodbye, or follow religious or cultural traditions. Let the staff know as soon as possible so they can support you.
Collecting Personal Belongings
The care home will arrange for you (or the next of kin) to collect your loved one’s belongings at a convenient time. Most care homes will ask you to sign paperwork acknowledging receipt of their possessions.
What to Do Next
Losing someone is never easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here are the next steps:
- Bring Your Loved One Into Our Care – A funeral director will collect your loved one and ensure they are treated with dignity.
- Register the Death – This must be done within five days at a local registry office. You’ll receive a death certificate, which is needed for legal matters and funeral arrangements.
- Arrange the Funeral – Whether you prefer a simple service or a personalised celebration of life, we’re here to help.
We’re Here for You
We understand how difficult this time is, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team is here to support you, whenever you need us.
We are available 24 hours a day should you need any support, help or advice.
Helpful Links
Death at Home
Death in Hospital
Death of a Child
Dying abroad and Repatriation
Sudden or Unexpected Death
Registering a death
Help with bereavement