When somebody close to you dies it is a very difficult time. A death must normally be registered in the district where the death happens within five days, unless the coroner is conducting an investigation when the timescale can be extended. Local undertakers are very supportive at such a raw time and can help guide those left behind through the first days. If the practice Doctors have been caring for a patient who dies at their home then the practice are usually able to issue a death certificate. As a practice we aim to do this as soon as possible but it can take up to 2 working days. Once a death certificate has been issued, then the death needs to be registered. This can be done by booking an appointment online at:
northyorkshire.zipporah.co.uk/Registrars.Live
Or ring north Yorkshire county council asking for the Harrogate Registry office on 01609 780780.
Guidance regarding registration of a death can also be found in North Yorkshire county councils website:
www.northyorks.gov.uk/registering-death
Losing a loved one is tough and two local charities who provide counselling and support for adults and children are:
CRUSE bereavement care, 01423 550564
www.cruse.org.uk
or JUST B, 01423 856790
www.justb.org.uk
Should you wish to discuss issues with one of the Practice Doctors then please book an appointment through reception at the surgery.