Bereavement advice
REPATRIATION AND AUTOPSY
What to expect from the Italian authorities
The death of a friend or relative is always distressing. Being in a foreign country and dealing with practical problems can aggravate distress.
This information sheet tells you how the British Consulates in Italy can offer practical help and explains what you need to do for yourself. It also tells you what to expect from the Italian authorities.
After the death of a loved one you are likely to have many questions. It may be difficult to communicate with the people around you. You may not know where to turn.
If you are travelling with a tour group the first thing you should do is contact them. They will be able to contact the nearest British Consulate or friends and relatives back home on your behalf.
If the deceased has private insurance cover the insurance company should be informed immediately. It is the responsibility of the insurance company to appoint a funeral director. Local companies who approach you should be told to contact your insurers.
If you have no tour representative then you, or someone with you should contact us and ask for advice. We will be able to supply you with a list of Italian and international undertakers.
THINGS YOU CAN DO:
Make sure you have as much documentation as possible about the deceased and yourself including the following that can be found in the British passport:
- Full name;
- Date and place of birth;
- Passport number;
- Where and when the passport was issued;
- If it is not you – details of the next of kin of the deceased.
WHAT WE CAN DO:
- Inform next-of-kin and keep him informed. Ensure that you do not feel you are on your own;
- Advise on the cost of local burial, local cremation and transport of the remains and personal property back to the UK;
- Provide a list of local funeral directors. If an English-speaking firm is not available, Consular staff will help you with the arrangements;
- Press for an investigation by local authorities where there is evidence of suspicious circumstances and pass on results.
WHAT WE CANNOT DO:
- Investigate an alleged crime;
- Pay for burial or cremation expenses;
- Pay for the repatriation of remains to the UK;
- Pay any outstanding debts.
Autopsies are obligatory in Italy when death is not by natural causes. A doctor in a state hospital may also request an autopsy for a death by natural causes. When autopsy is necessary internal and cerebral organs may be removed and have samples taken for examination.
In some cases it may be necessary to have a further autopsy in the UK even though one has been carried out overseas, and when repatriation is to England or Wales, it is probable that the coroner will wish to hold an inquest.
Before repatriation ensure that the undertaker returns all valuables, such as jewellery and personal effects, to you, or that you collect them from the local authorities.
When you return to the UK you will be able to find help and support from:
- Your family doctor;
- The Social Services;
- Cruse Bereavement Care.
If you need further details let us know. The emotions you may experience after a major personal crisis can be traumatic. Remember that help is available.
Consular Section - British Embassy
Via XX Settembre, 80/A
00187 Roma
Tel: 06 4220 0001 until 7.00pm and on 06 4220 2603 after 7.00pm
E-mail: ConsularRome@fco.gov.uk
The telephone is answered 24 hours a day and in an emergency an officer is always available.
Contact us
Opening times:
Consular affairs:
09:15 - 13:30 Mon to Fri*
Telephone services:
Consular and emergency matters:
Switchboard: 06 4220 0001
09:15 - 12:00 Mon to Fri*
Fax: 06 4220 2334
* except on public holidays
For all other services visit our page of direct phone and fax numbers and e-mail addresses or view our regional network page.
