Citizens Advice
Advice on claiming bereavement benefits.
If you'd prefer to talk
We hope our guide provides helpful information and support during this difficult time.
If you'd prefer to speak with someone, our team is here to help. We can answer your questions, explain the information in this booklet and help you understand what may need to be done and when.
What happens first
If your loved one dies in our Inpatient Unit:
- Our doctors will refer the death to the Medical Examiner or, in some cases, the coroner.
- Once approved, the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) will be sent electronically to the Register Office.
- Please let staff know if a cremation is planned, as extra paperwork is required.
- If you need an urgent certificate for faith reasons, tell us as soon as possible.
- Collect personal belongings from the ward when ready.
If you’d like to see your loved one after they have died, you can arrange this at the hospice or later at the funeral director’s chapel of rest.
Registering the death
You must register the death within five days (unless the Coroner is involved). This is usually done at the Register Office in the area where the person died.
When you attend your appointment, you’ll be asked for information about the person who has died, such as their full name, date of birth and address. Take any documents you have with you.
You’ll receive:
- A Certificate for Burial or Cremation (the green form) for the funeral director.
- A BD8 form if needed for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
- The opportunity to purchase certified copies of the death certificate. It’s often helpful to get several copies, as banks, insurance providers and other organisations may each require one.
Stafford Register Office
Judges Chambers, St Martins Place, Stafford, ST16 2LA
Tel: 0300 111 8001
Email: [email protected]
Funeral arrangements
A funeral is a chance to say goodbye in a way that feels right for you.
You can choose to use a funeral director or make the arrangements yourself. Check whether any funeral plans or payments were made in advance, and consider comparing quotes from at least two providers to help manage costs.
Financial help may be available through:
You can choose to use a funeral director or make the arrangements yourself. Check whether any funeral plans or payments were made in advance, and consider comparing quotes from at least two providers to help manage costs.
Financial help may be available through:
Staffordshire County Council
Guidance on the funeral process and payment options.
Royal British Legion
Support may be available if the person who died served in the Armed Forces.
People you may need to notify
Tell Us Once
Notify government departments, such as HMRC and the Passport Office, in one step.
Stop Mail
Stop unwanted post to the deceased.
The Bereavement Register
Can help remove data from marketing companies.
Returning equipment and medication
- Medical equipment (such as beds, hoists and mobility aids): Medequip 01785 273950
- Wheelchairs: Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Wheelchair Service 0808 175 3996
- Pendant alarms and monitoring devices: contact the provider listed on the device.
- Unused medication: return to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.
- Unused continence products: Abena 0800 052 1165
- Equipment or care items provided by community nursing teams: District Nursing Team 0300 790 7000
Grief in children
Even young children experience grief in their own way and it’s important we try to include children and young people in what is happening.
- Use clear, simple language (avoid “asleep” or “lost”)
- Encourage questions and maintain routines
- Offer choices about attending the funeral
Further information and support
Our full guide provides more detailed practical advice, answers to common questions and a directory of useful organisations and support services.
If you'd like to talk to someone, our Family Support Team is here to help.