The death needs to be registered by a 'qualified informant,' which is typically:

• A close relative of the deceased (e.g., spouse, civil partner, parent, child).
• Someone present at the death.
• The occupier of the house or institution where the death occurred (if no relative is present).
• The person arranging the funeral (though usually a relative is preferred).

• Where: The death must be registered at the Register Office in the district where the death occurred. You can find your local Register Office online, or Ridgeway Funeral Service can provide you with the necessary contact details. Due to current guidelines, many register offices now offer telephone appointments.
• When: You must register the death within 5 days (unless the Coroner is involved, in which case the timeframe may be extended).

To register the death, you will need to provide specific documents and information. Gathering these beforehand will make the process smoother:

• The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD): This is the most crucial document, issued by the doctor who attended the deceased.
• Information about the Deceased:
  • Full name and surname (and maiden name, if applicable).
  • Date and place of birth.
  • Last occupation.
  • Usual address.
  • If married or in a civil partnership, the full name and occupation of their spouse/civil partner.
  • NHS number (if known).
• Your Information (as the informant):
  • Your full name and address.
  • Your relationship to the deceased.

Once the death is registered, the Registrar will issue you with important documents:

• The 'Green Form' (Certificate for Burial or Cremation): This allows Ridgeway Funeral Service to proceed with either the burial or cremation. We will require this document from you.
• A Certificate of Registration of Death (Form BD8): This form is for DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) purposes and provides information about bereavement benefits.
• Certified Copies of the Death Certificate: You will need multiple copies of the death certificate for various administrative purposes, such as closing bank accounts, claiming insurance benefits, and managing pensions. It is advisable to purchase multiple copies at the time of registration, as they are cheaper then and save significant time later.

• Burial: This involves choosing a burial plot in a cemetery or churchyard. Considerations include whether it’s a new plot or reopening an existing family grave.
• Cremation: This involves arrangements with a crematorium. Families then decide on the disposition of ashes (e.g., scattering, interment, keeping them in an urn).
• Ridgeway Funeral Service will explain the full process for both options, including associated legal forms and fees.

• Religious Service: Held in a church, other place of worship, or a crematorium chapel, led by a minister, priest, or cleric.
• Non-Religious/Humanist Service: Led by a celebrant, focusing on the deceased’s life, values, and memories, often held in a crematorium chapel, dignified secular venue, or even at the graveside.
• Direct Cremation/Burial: A very simple service without a traditional ceremony or attendance by mourners, followed by a private committal. This is often chosen for simplicity or cost-efficiency.
• Personalised Service: We can incorporate elements from different traditions or unique ideas to create a truly bespoke service.

• Selecting the appropriate church, crematorium chapel, or alternative venue.
• Deciding on the date and time that best suits the family and other attendees.

• Ridgeway Funeral Service offers a range of coffins and caskets, from traditional wood to eco-friendly options, varying in material, design, and cost, ensuring there is something to suit every preference and budget.

• Families can choose to visit their loved one in our private Chapel of Rest. This can be an important part of the grieving process for many, offering a chance to say a final goodbye. We ensure your loved one is presented with dignity and peace.

• Arrangement of the hearse to transport the deceased.
• Provision of limousines for family members if desired.
• Discussion of any special transport requests.

• Assistance with creating a meaningful Order of Service booklet, including choices of music (hymns, classical, contemporary), readings (poems, scriptures), eulogies, and visual tributes (photo slideshows). 

• Advice on floral arrangements, from family flowers to requests for donations to a chosen charity in lieu of flowers. We can coordinate with florists on your behalf.

• Guidance on writing and placing obituaries in local or national newspapers, as well as online announcements to inform friends and wider family of the funeral details.

• Ridgeway Funeral Service encourages families to personalise the funeral to truly reflect the unique life of the deceased. This could involve special colours, themed elements, significant items placed in the coffin, or unique modes of transport.