What to do when someone dies in hospital
If your loved one has died in hospital and the death was expected, Bay Tree Funerals are here to guide you calmly through the next steps.
Expected death in hospital
When someone dies in hospital, the hospital bereavement team or ward staff will usually guide the family through the first steps. They will explain what happens next, how the medical paperwork is handled and when you can contact the funeral director.
You can choose Bay Tree Funerals at any stage. Once the hospital has completed the necessary paperwork and release process, we can arrange to bring your loved one into our care.
Step-by-step guidance
1 Speak with the hospital team
The ward staff, bereavement office or hospital team will usually explain the immediate next steps and tell you how the medical paperwork will be dealt with.
2 Wait for the necessary paperwork
The hospital will arrange for the medical paperwork to be completed. In some cases, the death may be reviewed by the Medical Examiner or referred to the coroner.
3 Call Bay Tree Funerals
When you feel ready, call us on 0116 278 8868. We can explain what happens next and liaise with the hospital when the time is right.
4 Registering the death
Once the correct medical paperwork has been completed, the death can usually be registered. The hospital or registration service will guide you on the next step.
5 Bringing your loved one into our care
When the hospital has given the necessary release, our team can arrange to bring your loved one into our care at our funeral home in Blaby.
6 Arranging the funeral
When you are ready, Samantha and our family team can help you arrange a funeral that feels right for your loved one, with clear guidance at every stage.
We can liaise with the hospital
Families often feel unsure about when to call the funeral director. You can contact us as soon as you feel ready, and we can advise when the hospital is likely to release your loved one into our care.
We regularly support families dealing with Leicester hospitals and surrounding hospital bereavement teams.
Calm support from our family team
You will not be rushed. We can explain the first steps, help you understand what the hospital may ask for, and arrange an appointment at our Blaby funeral home when you are ready.
We support families across Leicester, Blaby and Leicestershire.
Expected death in hospital FAQs
Who should I speak to first when someone dies in hospital?
The hospital ward staff, bereavement office or hospital team will usually explain the immediate next steps and how the paperwork will be completed.
Can I choose Bay Tree Funerals?
Yes. The choice of funeral director is always yours. You can call Bay Tree Funerals directly and we can guide you from there.
Can Bay Tree Funerals collect my loved one from hospital?
Yes. Once the hospital has completed the necessary paperwork and release process, we can bring your loved one into our care.
What if the coroner is involved?
If the death is referred to the coroner, the hospital or coroner’s office will explain what happens next. We can also support you and explain the process in plain English.
Can I book an appointment before everything is complete?
Yes. You can contact us before all the paperwork is finished. We can talk through the first steps and arrange an appointment when the time is right.
Here when you need us
If your loved one has died in hospital and you are unsure what to do next, please call Bay Tree Funerals. We will guide you with care, clarity and dignity.
Bay Tree Funeral Directors7A Welford Road, Blaby, Leicester, LE8 4FT