When my own Mum died at home unexpectedly, I didn't know what to do. There's no guidebook and the internet wasn't as prolific. If Mum had died in hospital, a home or similar, the cause of death would likely have been foreseen but when someone dies at home, this needs to be treated differently.
The guidance I obtained when I rang a local Funeral Director, was to dial 999. This to me didn't seem like an emergency but I later found out, it is the expected thing to do.
Then, expect a Paramedic and the Police to attend. This is normal. Both will carry out their checks and also support you and anyone with you. They will also organise for someone to collect your loved one.
The next step is to take time for yourself. Have a cup of tea, or call someone who can support you.
You will need to speak to a Funeral Director and they will know where your loved one is and if they died unexpectedly, or at home a Coroner or the medical examiner service will likely need to confirm the cause of their death. A doctor or the medical examiner service reviews and confirms the cause of death and on completion paperwork called, the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death is sent to the local Register Office.
From the point your Register Office receives the paperwork, the death must be registered within five days. This includes weekends and bank holidays.
A registration appointment will be set up and usually takes about 30 minutes.
The Registrar issues the certificate, and you can buy certified copies for £12.50. You will need copies as proof when dealing with banks, utilities, pensions, Housing Associations, etc.
A Funeral Director will lead you through the necessary stages for the funeral and discuss options for Funeral Celebrant, funeral location and start to obtain dates for you.
It takes some considerable time, so be prepared and if your are employed, take advantage of the Bereavement Leave your workplace provides.