What Should You Do when a Death Occurs?

When a death occurs at home

When a death occurs suddenly at home it is advisable to call the ambulance service to attend. However, if the death has been expected you should call your family doctor to attend to verify the death and confirm that they will write a Medical Death Certificate. If the family doctor is not able to attend then arrange for a locum – the service number should be available on the Medical Clinic’s after hour phone service. Once the doctor has attended, you can then contact Bethel Funerals to arrange transfer of the deceased to our funeral home.

When a death occurs in a hospital or nursing home

When a death occurs in a hospital or nursing home the facility concerned will make the necessary arrangements for a doctor to attend. If you have provided them with details for Bethel Funerals, the facility will contact us to arrange for transfer of the deceased to our funeral home. If we do not know the family details, Bethel Funerals will obtain the next of kin details from the facility and be in contact with them shortly thereafter to help them through the next steps.

When the Coroner is involved

Where a death has occurred suddenly as a result of an accident, homicide, suicide or other unusual circumstance, or if the doctor is unsure as to the cause of death, the case will be referred to the State Coroner. Upon completion of the Coronial investigation Bethel Funerals will liaise with the Coroner to arrange for the transfer of the deceased to our funeral home.

Arranging a Funeral

We understand how difficult it can be to think clearly at such an emotional time as the death of a loved one. Our team will work closely with you and your family to explain all the various options available and walk you through the steps that need to be taken. Bethel will meet with your family (or executor) face-to-face to agree on a way forward.

Here are the two key areas to manage when arranging a funeral:

• Administration Details – we will collect the data required to register the death along with the completion of either burial or cremation documentation.
• Funeral Service – we will work with you to consider the various options available to ensure the service is a fitting and memorable tribute for all concerned. At the conclusion of the arrangement, a fully itemised statement of funeral costs will be provided as a record.

Upon losing a loved one, there are a number of steps that need to be taken. Bethel Funerals has the experience, expertise and empathy necessary to make this time as stress-free as possible. As committed Christians, we hold a high value on life and want to help you remember and truly celebrate a life lived, while giving you and your family the time and space you need to grieve.

The funeral can be held at your church or chapel of choice including our chapel in Mitcham (Melbourne) and we will work closely with your chosen clergy/celebrant to ensure all details are taken care of.