Dealing with losing a loved one

This can be the most difficult part of the entire journey, and it doesn’t only apply to losing a loved one, but also helping a loved one cope with losing somebody close to them.

Losing a loved one

At the time of death

If a loved one passes away at home, you will need to call your family doctor or the Netcare 911 paramedics. They will issue a declaration of death form, and they will also be able to assist in taking the deceased to the mortuary.

If your loved one passes away in hospital from natural causes or after an illness, the doctor will issue a death notice, and the deceased will either be taken to the hospital mortuary, or you will need to contact a Funeral Home who will assist with the necessary arrangements.

Assistance in dealing with your loss

Different families will follow different procedures, but it is important to stick to your loved one's advanced care plan. The following options will help you both follow the correct steps forward as well as help you cope with your loss.

Assistance in dealing with your loss

Religious protocol

If it was your loved one's wishes, then you should contact your relevant religious authority as they will be able to help and guide you through the correct process and assist with specific burial and funeral arrangements if necessary.

Organ donor foundation

Contact the organ donor foundation if your loved one was an organ donor. It may still be possible to donate organs or tissue if someone had a cancer diagnosis, although there may be some restrictions on what can be donated.

COPE Therapy

The COPE (Centre of Psychotherapy Excellence) Therapy teams at the Akeso mental health facilities have a blog with helpful articles, tips, skills, and experiences.

Further information

Contact the central customer service centre on

[email protected] or 0860 NETCARE (0860 638 2273)

Please note that the centre operates on weekdays between 08:00 and 16:00.