We appreciate that this is a very difficult time and the loss of a loved one can be particularly distressing. We would like to reassure you that we are here to support you and ensure, where possible, that your needs and wishes are met.
What happens when someone dies
The Medical Examiner (external link) will issue a Medical Certificate Cause of Death (MCCD) to the Registrar.
The Medical Examiner provides an independent scrutiny of all deaths that are not investigated by the coroner. The Medical Examiner will ensure that an accurate cause of death is recorded, identify any concerns surrounding the death itself which can then be further investigated by the care provider or Coroner if required, and take the views of the bereaved into consideration. The Medical Examiner will liaise with the next of kin prior to issuing the MCCD to the Registrar.
If the death occurred in Wrexham and the Medical Examiner has issued the MCCD, the register office will contact you to make an appointment to register the death.
Who can register a death
Please see below a list of individuals who can register a death:
- A relative or partner
- A person who was present at the death
- An occupier of a communal establishment
- The person arranging the funeral if there are no relatives available
In preparation for the death registration appointment please make sure you know the information listed below. You might find it helpful to write it down in advance, or have documents such passport, birth certificate, and marriage certificate (if applicable) on hand.
Details of the deceased:
- Date and place of death
- First name, middle names (if applicable) and surname
- Any other names the deceased was otherwise or previously known by
- Maiden name (if applicable)
- Date and place of birth
- Occupation and whether they were retired
- Address
Child deaths under 18 and stillborn
Losing a child is a deeply painful experience. We want to offer practical and compassionate support to grieving families. There is a range of support available including burial and cremation fees for children under 18 and £500 contribution towards the funeral and other related costs.
Further information about the support available to support grieving families can be found on the Welsh Government website.
The Coroner
When a death occurs in the following circumstances it will be referred to the coroner:
- The death is sudden and unexpected
- The cause of death is industrially related
- The cause of death is unknown
- There are suspicious circumstances surrounding the death
- Death due to accident, violence, suicide, neglect or during / after operation
The coroner will investigate the circumstances of the death and do one of the following:
- Issue a certificate to the Registrar allowing the death to be registered
- Arrange a post mortem and when this is complete issue a cause of death certificate to the Registrar allowing the death to be registered
- Arrange a post mortem and hold an Inquest. The coroner will then arrange for the death to be registered after the Inquest has taken place.
Financial guidance and support
We recognise this is a difficult time for everyone, putting many people in unexpected financial circumstances.
Please contact your funeral director to discuss the different services available and, if required, the financial assistance they offer.
Bereavement Support
Bereavement affects everyone in different ways and can be very painful and confusing. Support and resources are available to those in need.