Change of Name

You can change your child’s name but inevitably there are restrictions. To change the name of a child under 18, you can either make an “unenrolled” deed poll using either an approved agency or a solicitor or an “enrolled” application via the courts. A child that is 16 or over can also make their own application.

An enrolled deed poll means that the child’s new name appears in the Gazette. Please note that some organisations will only accept an enrolled deed poll as evidence of a name change and so it is important that you understand what an organisation needs before you proceed.

To change a child’s name by enrolled deed poll, you will need to either have the agreement of everyone with parental responsibility or a court order.