Can I change my child's name by Deed Poll?

Parents are entitled to change their child's name by Deed Poll providing everyone with parental responsibility for the child consents to the change taking place. Before we will release your child's Deed Poll we must receive a letter signed by everyone with parental responsibility confirming that they do indeed consent to the name change. Please note: if your child is 16 years or older, they can apply for an adult Deed Poll in their own name for which parental consent is not required.

There are a number of factors to consider when changing your child's name and we strongly suggest that you read our article called Changing the name of a child as we go into great detail about the requirements and also explain what parental responsibility is and who has it.

If you are in doubt about who may have parental responsibility for your child please contact us before you make your application so that we can correctly advise you.