One of a series of leaflets published by The Compassionate Friends This means that we may be the ones to deal with our child’s estate, including closing bank accounts and much more. It may be the first time we have come across the complications of executorship or administration. We may need to search through their personal papers to find the necessary information. We will probably need multiple copies of their death certificate. It could be helpful to seek the advice of a solicitor. Our child’s ‘digital legacy’ would also come to us in those circumstances, and we will have the right to their phone, tablet or computer. With these will come entry to their email and social media accounts. We will want to think carefully before accessing their personal accounts, as these contain private communication between our child and their friends. If our child was caring for us If we are coping with health issues or ageing, our child may have been a big help to us. They may have lived close by or with us. As well as their companionship, we might have relied on them for our personal care or transport needs. They may have helped with tasks like banking, talking to our utility providers, paying bills, as well as accompanying us to hospital appointments. Even if our child mostly supported us over the phone, we may feel anxious about how we will manage without them. If we have other children, hopefully there is one who can fill the role that our child had, but they might not be able to do this. They may not be available or capable of offering the same support. Alternatively, we may have been bereaved of our only child. In these circumstances, as well as our deep sadness, we may also now be frightened about who will take care of us now and in the future. If our adult child was our carer, it’s important to make sure we find new support as soon as we can. Organisations like Age UK may be able to help us find resources within our community. If we cannot manage alone, we may need to contact our local authority to explain the situation.
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