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What to do when someone dies?

Hartlepool Registration Service

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/deaths

How long do I have to register a death?

Deaths are normally registered within 5 days; a Coroner can extend this. The Coroner's office will be able to give you guidance.

Who can register a death?

  • A relative of the deceased
  • Someone that was present at the time of the death

If these do not apply, please contact us on 01429 523337 for further guidance.

How do I register a death?

We operate an appointment system to register deaths. Please contact us on 01429 523337 to make an appointment.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge to register a death. However, death certificates cost $4 each at the time of registration. You can also buy as many certificates as you think you will need.

When can I make an appointment?

  • Without Coroner referral. Once a doctor has issued the medical certificate.
  • With Coroner referral. Once the registrar has received the paperwork from the Coroner.

How long does the appointment take?

Appointments normally take 30 minutes.

What do I need to bring to the appointment?

You must bring the Medical Certificate issued by a Doctor. This will be in a sealed envelope.

If possible, please bring along the below documents if they are available.

  • Birth certificate of the deceased
  • Marriage or Civil Partnership certificate of the deceased (if applicable)
  • NHS Medical Card

What information will I need to know to register?

  • Full name of the deceased at time of death
  • Any other names used (including maiden name if relevant)
  • Date and place of birth. Town and county if born in the UK and country if born abroad.
  • Their last address
  • Their occupation (last occupation if retired)
  • Living spouse or civil partners full name and date of birth.
  • If the deceased was a married woman, her husband’s occupation
  • If the deceased were getting a state pension of any other state pension

What documents will I get at the appointment?

  • A form for the Funeral Director / Organiser. Unless the Coroner has already issued one.
  • A form for the Benefits Agency which relates to state pensions and/or benefits
  • Purchased death certificates.

Can I organise the funeral without the death certificate?

You will be able to make early arrangements with the Funeral Director / Organiser. However, the funeral cannot take place.

The death did not take place in Hartlepool; can I still register there?

You can register a death in any register office in England and Wales. We do recommend going to the register office in the district the death occurred. For further information please contact us on 01429 523337.

Coping with Bereavement

Bereavement is something we will all experience sooner or later.

Nothing can prepare you for the loss of a loved one. However, it is natural to experience different feelings and emotions. Including: disbelief; shock; numbness; anger; guilt; anxiety and depression. Whatever you experience, try to make sure that you let your feelings out. Crying, for example, is perfectly natural and may help with releasing your pain.

Some people may deal with bereavement quickly. Others may take months or years to deal with bereavement. It’s not a race and should allowed time to fully come to terms. Take as much time as you need.

It is important to recognise that not everyone reacts the same way. People may hide their emotions, showing a "brave face". People may be open about how they feel. People may not be in control of their emotions. It is perfectly fine to react in the way that is best for you.

There are services that can help you deal with bereavement.