What happens after death?

Supporting the people you leave behind

Many people who have a life-limiting illness worry about the people they are going to leave behind.

If you are the person who usually does all the organising and managing of the family affairs, this time may be even more difficult for you.

Planning ahead and sharing what you know is a way you can help your family to cope after your death.

Do talk to health professionals looking after you if you are concerned that your family cannot care for themselves after your death. They will be able to support you and them to make the right decisions and plan for their future.

Practical issues

It is a good idea to start with the practical things that will help your family. Do your carers know where you keep your information? They will need your birth certificate to be able to register your death.

If you don’t have a birth certificate they will need to know your exact date of birth and the town you were born in.

Other things you may want to think about are:

• Have you made a will? Will your family know where to find it?
  
• Will they know where your bank details are? If you have a joint account it is a good idea to speak with the bank as your partner will need to set up their own account
  
• Have you checked the terms of any policies you have as some insurance policies may arrange payment before death if you have a terminal illness. Does your family know where to find information about your policies?
  
• Do you have other assets or property that your family need to know about?
  
• Do you have any agreements with companies that will need to be settled after your death, for example credit cards, utility bills? Will family know where you keep the details?