When?
Before the funeral (unless the coroner is involved) and within five days of the death occurring. This is a legal requirement in England and Wales.
Who?
- The death would normally be registered by a relative.
- If a relative is not available other persons can register, anyone present at the death, the occupier of the premises where the death occurred or whoever is taking responsibility for the funeral.
- *Funeral directors cannot register on your behalf.
Where?
- The Registrar’s office for the District in which the death occurred.
- If the death occurred within the Swindon Borough boundary the Registrar’s phone number is 01793 522738. On phoning you will be given an appointment.
- If the death occurred in North Wiltshire contact the Chippenham Registrar on 01225 713007.
What do you need to take?
- The Death Certificate.
- The deceased’s birth and marriage certificate.
- The deceased’s National Health Service Card.
- Any document relating to pension or allowances received by the deceased from public funds.
- (If you don’t have all these documents let the registrar know any information that may help).
What documents are issued by the Registrar?
- A certificate for burial or cremation, known as the ‘green form’.
- A cream certificate of certified copy of entry in the Register of Deaths (A fee is payable for each copy required)
- The Registrar now provides a ‘Tell Us Once’ service where they will notify all statutory organisations that need to be advised of the death.
- If a post-mortem is needed and the deceased is to be cremated the coroner will send all necessary paperwork directly to the Funeral Director.