Losing someone close to you can feel overwhelming. Alongside grief, there are often many practical things to manage. This guide breaks down what to do, step by step, to help you navigate this difficult time.

A Real Experience

“Andrea” came to OPAAL after her husband died, needing help to sort out his estate. She said:

“OPAAL has been incredibly helpful. I was in such a low place when Sharon first offered support, but now I feel like I have a future again.”

Her experience shows that support can make a real difference during one of life’s hardest moments.

What to Do Immediately

If the death happens at home:

  • Call the GP or emergency services (999) if it was unexpected
  • A medical professional will confirm the death

If the death happens in hospital or a care home:

  • Staff will guide you through the next steps

You will need:

  • A Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (from a doctor)
  1. Registering the Death

In the UK, you usually need to register the death within 5 days.

You’ll need to:

  • Make an appointment at your local register office
  • Take the medical certificate with you

You’ll receive:

  • A death certificate
  • Documents needed for the funeral and estate
  1. Arranging the Funeral

You can:

  • Use a funeral director
  • Or arrange it yourself

Things to consider:

  • Burial or cremation
  • Type of service (religious or non-religious)
  • Costs and payment options

You may be eligible for financial help such as a Funeral Expenses Payment.

Telling Government and Organisations

Use the “Tell Us Once” service (available in most areas) to notify:

  • HMRC
  • DWP (benefits, pensions)
  • DVLA
  • Passport Office

You should also contact:

  • Banks and building societies
  • Utility companies
  • Insurance providers
  • Employer (if applicable)Managing the Estate

Managing the Estate

This includes:

  • Finding the will (if there is one)
  • Identifying assets (property, savings, belongings)
  • Paying debts and taxes
  • Distributing what remains

You may need to apply for probate (legal authority to deal with the estate).

This part can feel complicated—many people seek support from organisations like OPAAL or legal professionals.

Looking After Yourself

Grief doesn’t follow a timetable. You might feel:

  • Shock or numbness
  • Anger or guilt
  • Deep sadness

Practical steps:

  • Talk to someone you trust
  • Reach out to bereavement support services
  • Give yourself time—there’s no “right way” to grieve

Getting Support

You don’t have to manage everything alone. Support is available through:

  • Bereavement charities
  • Community organisations
  • Legal advice services
  • Local support groups

As “Andrea’s” story shows, reaching out can help you move from feeling overwhelmed to finding stability again.

Final Thought

Dealing with a death is both emotional and practical. Taking things one step at a time—and accepting help where you can—can make the process more manageable.

See our Campaigns Page for more information that steps we could all take to make our passing easier for anyone we leave behind.