When Someone Dies

Supporting families in difficult times

When a loved one dies, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Our empathetic team at Barry Whalen Funeral Directors is here to support you. Please arrange an appointment to speak with us and we will be honoured to offer you tailored advice and support. 

Compassionate care, every step of the way.

Since 2013, our company has been supporting families across Ayrshire and beyond, helping them arrange meaningful, personal farewells for their loves ones. Our tea, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – always ready to listen, advise and support your whenever you need us. 

How We Can Help

We understand that losing someone close can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we’re here to provide:

• Personal, one-to-one guidance tailored to your situation
• Clear explanations of the next steps
• Practical support with paperwork and arrangements
• Compassionate care for your loved one, handled with dignity and respect

What To Do When Someone Dies

The steps you need to take will depend on where your loved one has passed away. Our team can talk you through this at any stage, but here’s a simple guide:

If the death occurs at home

• Contact your GP as soon as possible.
• If the death was sudden, accidental, or violent, you must also notify the police.
• Your GP will issue a medical certificate of death, confirming the cause of death.
• In unexpected situations, the Procurator Fiscal may also be involved.
  

If the death occurs in a hospital

• You or the next of kin will be contacted if you weren’t already present.
• The hospital will arrange the medical certificate of death.
• In some cases, if the death was unexpected, the Procurator Fiscal may be informed.
  

If the death occurs in a care home

• A member of staff, usually the manager, will contact the next of kin.
• The care home will liaise with the individual’s GP to arrange the medical certificate.
• If the death was expected and there are no suspicious circumstances, the process is straightforward.
  

Registering a Death in Scotland

Any death in Scotland must be registered with the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages. This has to be done within 8 days. In order to issue a death certificate, they will need to see the medical certificate of death produced by the deceased’s doctor.

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For more information, please view the Scottish Government’s website, gov.scot.