Bereavement Support

Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things you will ever face. This page is here to help guide you through some of the practical steps ahead, and to point you towards support when you need it most.

Next steps after losing a loved one

In the days and weeks following a bereavement, there are a number of practical matters that will need to be attended to. We understand this can feel overwhelming, and we are always happy to offer guidance. Here is a brief overview of the key steps.

Registering the death

In Scotland, a death must be registered within 8 days. You will need to register at the local Register Office for the area where the death occurred. The doctor or hospital will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, which you will need to take with you. The registrar will then issue a Death Certificate and a Certificate of Registration of Death (Form 14), which is required before burial or cremation can take place. We recommend obtaining several copies of the Death Certificate, as you will need them for various organisations.

Notifying government departments

You should notify relevant government departments as soon as possible. The 'Tell Us Once' service allows you to report a death to most government organisations in a single step, including HMRC, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Passport Office, and the DVLA. You will be given a reference number by the registrar to use this service. You should also contact the local council to cancel any council tax discount or housing benefit, and notify the Electoral Register.

Closing bank accounts and financial matters

Contact the deceased's bank or building society as soon as possible, providing a copy of the Death Certificate. Accounts held solely in the deceased's name will be frozen until the estate is settled. Joint accounts will usually continue to operate in the surviving account holder's name. You should also notify any pension providers, insurance companies, credit card companies, and any other financial institutions. If the deceased held Premium Bonds, NS&I should be contacted directly.

Contacting a solicitor regarding wills

If the deceased left a will, it is important to locate it as soon as possible. A solicitor can help you establish whether a will exists and advise on the process of obtaining Confirmation (the Scottish equivalent of probate), which grants the executor legal authority to administer the estate. If there is no will, the estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy under Scots law. We recommend seeking legal advice early, particularly where property or significant assets are involved.

Cancelling subscriptions and notifying other organisations

You should also cancel any direct debits, standing orders, and subscriptions held in the deceased's name. Notify the Royal Mail if you wish to redirect post, and inform any clubs, memberships, or professional organisations. If the deceased was a driver, notify the DVLA and return the driving licence. Utility companies, the deceased's GP, dentist, and any care providers should also be informed.

Social Security Scotland: Funeral Support Payment

If you are struggling with the cost of a funeral, you may be eligible for a Funeral Support Payment from Social Security Scotland. This is a one-off payment to help with funeral costs and is available to people on certain qualifying benefits.

Who qualifies?

You may be eligible if you are responsible for paying for the funeral and you or your partner are receiving one of the following benefits at the time of the application:

—Universal Credit
—Income Support
—Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
—Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
—Pension Credit
—Housing Benefit
—Child Tax Credit
—Working Tax Credit (including a disability or severe disability element)

You must apply within 6 months of the funeral taking place. The payment can be used towards funeral director fees, burial or cremation costs, and certain other expenses. The amount you receive will depend on your circumstances.

How to apply

You can apply online at mygov.scot/funeral-support-payment, by phone on 0800 182 2222, or by requesting a paper application form. Social Security Scotland staff can also help you complete your application. You will need to provide details of the funeral costs, proof of your qualifying benefit, and the Death Certificate.

Bereavement support

Grief affects everyone differently, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. Talking to someone — whether a friend, a professional, or a trained volunteer — can make a real difference. Below are some organisations that offer support to those who are bereaved.

Coping with grief

It is normal to experience a wide range of emotions after a bereavement, including sadness, anger, guilt, and even relief. Allow yourself time to grieve, and do not feel you have to cope alone. Eating well, resting, and maintaining gentle routines can help. If you are struggling, please reach out to one of the organisations below or speak to your GP.

Grief Chat

Free online chat service offering immediate support from qualified bereavement counsellors, available Monday to Friday.

griefchat.co.uk

Cruse Scotland

Scotland's leading bereavement charity, offering free support, counselling, and information to anyone affected by bereavement.

crusescotland.org.uk | 0845 600 2227

Sands

Supports anyone affected by the death of a baby, including stillbirth and neonatal death, through a helpline, online community, and local groups.

sands.org.uk | 0808 164 3332

Samaritans

Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for anyone who needs to talk. Completely confidential and non-judgemental.

samaritans.org | 116 123 (free, 24/7)

Marie Curie

Offers a free Support Line for people living with a terminal illness and those who have been bereaved, as well as practical information and guidance.

mariecurie.org.uk | 0800 090 2309

Breathing Space

A free, confidential phone and webchat service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.

breathingspace.scot | 0800 83 85 87

We are always here

If you have any questions or simply need someone to talk to, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are available 24 hours a day and are always happy to help in any way we can.