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What to do when someone dies?

Hartlepool Registration Service

How long do I have to register a death?

Deaths normally have to be registered within 5 days.  If the Coroner is involved this may be extended, 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 neither of the above 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 buy as many as you think you will need.

When can I make an appointment?

  • If the death has not been referred to the Coroner; once the medical certificate has been issued.
  • If the death has been referred to the Coroner; 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 issues by a Doctor; this will be given to you 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 previously 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)
  • If there is a surviving spouse or civil partner, their 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 receive at the appointment?

  • A form for the Funeral Director/Organiser (unless one has already been issued by the Coroner)
  • A form for the Benefits Agency which relates to state pensions and/or benefits
  • Any death certificates that have been purchased

Can I organise the funeral without the death certificate?

You will be able to make initial 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 are able to register a death in any register office in England and Wales however due to the delay in receiving paperwork we request you attend the register office for the district the death took place.  For further information please contact us on 01429 523337.

Coping with Bereavement

Bereavement is something we will all experience sooner or later.  Nothing can really prepare you for the loss of a loved one, different people will react differently to the loss.  However, it is totally natural to experience a whole range of different feelings and emotions, including disbelief; shock; numbness; anger; guilt; anxiety and depression.  Whatever you experience, try to ensure 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 more quickly that others and, even though they may still have feelings of sadness, be able to carry on a normal after a fairly short period of time.  For others, it may take months and even years to fully come to terms with the loss of a loved one.  It is important to recognise that none of us will react to grief in exactly the same way, and that it is perfectly acceptable to react in the way that it best for you.  There are organisations that can help you deal with the loss.  For more advice and information click here. ​