If you’ve recently lost a loved one, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. One of the first steps is to register their death. In Nottingham and Derby, this process is straightforward once you know what to expect. We’ve created this guide to help you understand who is responsible, how the process works, and what you’ll need.
Can the Funeral Director Register the Death?
This is a common question, and the answer is no. The law does not allow Funeral Directors to register a death on behalf of the family. It must be done by someone who knew the person well—usually a close relative, or someone present at the time of death.
Who Can Register a Death?
In most cases, a close family member will take on the responsibility of registering the death. If no relatives are available, another person present at the time of death, or someone involved in the funeral arrangements, can usually do so.
Where Does the Medical Certificate Come From?
Before the death can be registered, you’ll need a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. Where you get this from depends on where the person died:
• At home or in a care home: the certificate will be provided by the person’s GP.
• In hospital: the hospital doctors will usually issue it. In some community hospitals, this may still come from the person’s own GP.
Once the certificate is ready, it’s sent electronically to the local Register Office.
How to Register a Death in Nottingham or Derby
Since March 2020, the process for registering a death has changed. Registrations are currently done by telephone, rather than in person.
Here’s what to expect:
• The GP or hospital will send the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death directly to the Registrar.
• Your contact details will either be passed on to the Register Office, or you’ll be advised to contact them directly once the certificate has been sent.
• A Registrar will then phone you to complete the registration during a scheduled appointment.
During the call, the Registrar will ask for details about the person who has died, their occupation, and their marital status. They’ll also ask which Funeral Director is handling the arrangements (please let them know if it is us), and will email us the necessary documentation so the funeral can proceed.
You will be able to order copies of the death certificate, which cost £11 each, and these will be posted to you.
A downloadable guide is available on our homepage which explains this procedure in full.
What Happens if the Coroner is Involved?
If the death has been referred to the Coroner, you may not be able to register it straight away. In some cases, the Coroner will need to investigate the circumstances before registration can take place. This may involve a post-mortem or inquest.
Sometimes, a funeral can still go ahead before the official registration is complete. If you are unsure about what applies in your situation, we’re always here to help guide you through.
Where to Register a Death
If the death occurred in:
• Nottingham: Contact Nottingham City Register Office
• Derby: Contact the Derby Register Office or Derbyshire County Council, depending on the exact location
Appointments are essential, even though the process is done over the phone.
Supporting You Every Step of the Way
At Gillotts, we know that planning a funeral while coping with loss can feel overwhelming. If you’re unsure about registering a death in Nottingham or Derby, or need guidance with funeral arrangements, we’re here to help. From handling paperwork to arranging a meaningful service, we’ll support every step of the way.
Useful links
Death at Home
Death in Care
Death in Hospital
Death of a Child
Dying abroad and Repatriation
Sudden or Unexpected Death
Help with bereavement