Showing evidence of a name change

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Changing your child's name factsheet

The name that someone is known by can be changed at any time without any legal procedure but in some official circumstances, for example, applying for a passport, proof may be needed.

A child might be commonly known by a different name, which does not have to be officially recorded, but your child's school or doctor, for example, may ask for proof of consent from everyone with Parental Responsibility before they agree to use the new name officially.

The evidence that you might need to provide may vary depending on who is requesting it. A letter from someone like a doctor, a solicitor, a minister, or a priest could be used, saying that they have known the child with both names. However, in some situations you may need a more recognised form of evidence, such as:

A Statutory Declaration - this is a formal document, which shows both old and new names. Your local Citizens Advice bureau should have an example of a change of name form that you can adapt. You will need to take it to a solicitor to witness your signature. This may be cheaper than having a solicitor draw one up for you.
Deed Poll - you can apply to the UK Deed Poll Service (or contact the Royal Courts of Justice on 020 7947 6000) if you want the name change to be publicly registered. You must have the consent of everyone with Parental Responsibility to do this and it is more costly and complicated than a Statutory Declaration. Contact the UK Deed Poll Service for further information: www.ukdps.co.uk or call 0870 350 1400.

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