The first days: a gentle checklist for families

In the first hours

Stay with your person if you wish. Open a window, say a prayer, sit quietly. If the death was at home and expected, call the family doctor or the hospital that cared for them. Then call us. There is nothing else that must be done right away.

The first day

For Muslim families, the washing, prayer and burial often happen on this day, and we move quickly with you and your imam. For Christian and traditional families, there is usually more time: your person rests in our care while the family meets, the church or elders are consulted and dates are agreed.

• Obtain the medical certificate of cause of death.
• Tell close family, and ask one person to keep a list of who has been told.
• Agree who will speak for the family with us.

The coming days

Notices and announcements, the funeral programme, choosing clothing or the shroud, and the plan for the gathering. Ask relatives to help with tasks: transport from the motor park, food for visitors, chairs from neighbours.

The farewell

The service, prayer or rites, and the burial. A funeral director stays with your family throughout, so that you can be present rather than busy.

After

Thanksgiving services, prayer gatherings and condolence visits. Take care of yourself. Grief does not end on the day of the burial, and our bereavement circle is open to you whenever you want it.