What to do when a death occurs

As of 9th September 2024, it became law that all deaths are under the independent scrutiny of a Medical Examiner. Depending on the cause of death, this will either be investigated by a Coroner or an independent Medical Examiner.

 

Within the new system the Medical Practitioner/GP will propose a cause of death for the Medical Examiner to investigate. The Medical Examiner will contact the bereaved family to give them the opportunity to ask questions or raise any concerns before final agreement. After which the Medical Examiner, will send the Medical Cause of Death Certificate to the Registrar.

​

Local Medical Examiner Contact Telephone Numbers:

Eastbourne District General Hospital - 0300 131 4500 ext. 734892

(for areas around Newick, Chailey, Fletching, Maresfield, Uckfield etc).

​

East Surrey Hospital, Redhill - 01737 768511 ext. 7168

(for areas around Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Lindfield, Cuckfield etc).

​

Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton - 01273 523162

(for areas around Brighton & Hove and parts of Lewes).

​

​What to do when someone dies at Home

If the death is expected and has occurred during normal working hours, a medical professional from their GP's surgery should attend to verify the death. If the death is expected and has occurred out of hours an on call Doctor or Senior Nurse can verify the death. The GP surgery will need to be informed that the death has occurred and the Medical Examiner will make contact with you in due course.

​

What to do when someone dies in professional care at a Nursing or Residential Home

In a nursing or residential home, the above procedure is likely to have been carried out by a Doctor or Nursing Staff of the home. The Medical Examiner will make contact with you in due course.

 

In a Hospital or Hospice

The bereavement officers or nursing staff will be able to offer support and practical advice about what to do next. They will inform you about the Medical Examiner and will ask for confirmation of your selected Funeral Director.

 

Once you have called us, we will make the necessary arrangements to bring your loved one into our care. ​As funeral directors we are totally dedicated to our profession, and you can contact us by telephone 24 hours of the day, every day of the year.