Support with Bereavement

Let us know

When you feel ready, please get in touch to let us know about your loss.

You can contact us by:

  • Speaking to your usual Hampden Bank contact, if you have one
  • Calling us: 0131 226 7300
  • Emailing us: contact@hampdenbank.com

If you are not sure who to speak to, we will make sure the right person gets in touch and supports you.

CONTACT US

What we may need

To help us begin supporting you, we may ask for some basic information, such as:

  • The name of the deceased client
  • Their address and, if known, account details
  • The date of death
  • Your contact details and your relationship to them

We may also ask for documents, for example:

  • A copy of the death certificate
  • Details of the executor or next of kin
  • A copy of the will or legal authority, where appropriate

You do not need the above to before you speak with us, we will explain exactly what is needed based on your situation.

How we will help you

Once we have been notified, we will:

  • Review the accounts held with Hampden Bank
  • Explain what happens next in clear, simple terms
  • Put appropriate arrangements in place on the accounts
  • Support the executor or representative with the next steps

Every situation is different. We will take a personal approach and guide you through the process at a pace that works for you.

Frequently asked questions

I held Power of Attorney. Can I continue to act on their behalf?
Power of Attorney ends when someone dies, so it can no longer be used to manage their affairs.

If you are dealing with the estate, we will usually need to see legal authority, such as a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, before we can discuss the accounts with you.

You can find more information about applying for probate on the UK Government website.

Who can deal with the accounts after someone dies?

This will usually be the executor named in the will. If there is no will, this may be the next of kin or another appointed administrator.

Before we can share detailed information or make changes to accounts, we will need to confirm that the person contacting us has the appropriate legal authority.

Do I need to contact you straight away?
There is no requirement to contact us immediately. You can get in touch when you feel ready.

If there are any urgent matters, we will help guide you once you make contact.

What happens to accounts once you are notified?
We will review the accounts and put appropriate arrangements in place to protect them.

This may include restricting access, stopping certain payments, or closing accounts where appropriate. We will explain any changes clearly and keep you informed.

How long does the process take?
The timescales can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and whether probate is required.

We will explain the expected steps and keep you updated throughout, so you know what to expect.

What if I am not sure what to do?
That is completely understandable. When you contact us, we will talk you through the next steps in a clear and straightforward way.

You do not need to have all the answers before getting in touch.

Will you work with the solicitor or adviser dealing with the Estate?
Yes, if there is a solicitor or professional adviser supporting you, we can work with them once we have the appropriate authority in place.

A slight aside, but do we have standards/procedures/check-lists/letter and email templates in place on what should be covered in conversations with next-of-kin when informing us of the death of a client?

Additional support

You may find it helpful to access independent guidance and support at this time. The following organisations provide practical information:

Practical advice

Bereavement support