Care After Death
After someone dies in the hospital, they are taken to the mortuary where they can be cared for in a cold environment. Here they are cared for by anatomical pathology technicians (APTs). APTs ensure the person is safe and their dignity is maintained. When visiting is available, they will also support you if you wish to visit someone who has died in the hospital.
Visiting at the hospital
It may not always be possible to visit the person who has died in the hospital Chapel of Rest. Please contact the Chapel of Rest on the numbers below to find out if it is possible to visit your relative or friend. If it is possible the staff will make an appointment with you. They will agree a time with you and give you directions to the Chapel of Rest. When you arrive they will come to meet you and support you through your visit.
Please note that visiting appointments are for half an hour and must be pre-booked by calling the Chapel of Rest. When you arrive for your appointment you may be asked to provide photographic identification (ID) or another form of ID.
Restricting visitors
We understand that you may not want anyone other than close family to visit, or indeed prefer if no one at all visited your friend or relative at the hospital Chapel of Rest. You may choose to have a password that you can give to other relatives and friends that allow them to make an appointment to visit or that you alone can make appointments. In this instance, please contact the relevant Chapel of Rest to inform Mortuary staff of this. They will make a note of this request and ensure all staff are aware.
St James’s University Hospital – 0113 206 4312
Leeds General Infirmary – 0113 392 3313
8.30 am to 4.30 pm, visiting times available between 9 am to 3 pm
Visiting at the funeral directors
Some relatives prefer to visit their loved one at the funeral home. Most funeral directors will be able to help arrange this and you should call them to arrange a time to visit.