1. Close relative of the deceased. 2. Relative in attendance during last illness 3. A relative in the district where the has death occurred 4. A person present at the death. 5. The person arranging the funeral

When someone dies somebody has to deal with their estate (the money, the property and possessions left.) by collecting all the money, paying any debts and distributing the estate to those entitled. The Probate Registry issues the document which is called a Grant of representation. 1. Probate issued to one or more of the executors named in the will. 2. Letters of administration (with will) issued when there is a will, but no executor named or unable to deal with the estate. 3. Letters of administration issued when your loved one has not made a will or it is not valid

In the event of a death, numerous people and organisations need to be informed, including:

• Hospital and/or family doctor
• Social services and district nurses
• Car insurance
• Employer or professional association
• HM Revenue and Customs
• Social security
• Local council
• Utilities (gas, electric, water, telephone, internet)
• Credit card companies
• Banks and building societies (accounts must be closed, and any joint accounts must be amended appropriately)
• Investments and insurance policies (premium bonds are not transferable, which is why the Post Office issues a form that must be sent to the bonds and stocks office – for further advice, consult a financial adviser or accountant)

Arrange redirection of mail at the post office.

In order to gain a refund and avoid confusion, it is advised to return certain items to the appropriate places following a bereavement, including: - Passport (you can return to this Passport Office, UK Passport Agency, 5th Floor, India Building, Water Street, Liverpool, L2 0RD) - Driving licence (you can return this to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB) - Car insurance (you can change the policy holder’s name or get a refund)

You may need to cancel the deceased’s direct debits and deliveries that go to their home, these could cover:

• Television licence (you can call up and ask for a refund)
• Season tickets and club membership cards
• Dentist and opticians
• Gardener
• Home help
• Newspapers

When making funeral arrangements, it is not always easy to determine what your future memorial requirements may be. Additionally, the burial site may require a period of settlement before the headstone may be properly erected. In these cases, it is recommended that the masons remove the memorial and take it to their premises for safekeeping. This also reduces costs in the long term, particularly if additional inscriptions are required.

Yes, we give the option for families and friends to choose between burial memorials and headstones. We can offer you beautiful designs and traditional craftsmanship because we work closely with an independent stone mason. This means we have a complete range of headstones to suit varying budgets and can tailor your needs to ensure their memorial reflects your loved one and is in keeping with the chosen location.