Why Change a Name After Adoption?
There are several reasons adoptive parents may choose to change a child’s name:
- Family unity – sharing the same surname as adoptive parents
- Fresh start – providing a new identity as part of a new life
- Practical reasons – avoiding confusion with paperwork and official records
- Personal choice – updating a first name or middle name to reflect the child’s new journey
How Does an Adoption Name Change Work?
When a child is formally adopted in the UK, the adoption certificate becomes their new birth certificate. This certificate records any new name chosen during the adoption process.
If you wish to change the child’s name at a later stage, you can do so by using a child deed poll application. This allows you to officially update their name for passports, school records, bank accounts, and more.
At Change My Name, we make the process simple with:
- Child Deed Poll Application – £19.95
- Name Change Kit – £29.95 (includes template letters for notifying schools, banks, HM Passport Office, DVLA, and others)
Documents Updated After an Adoption Name Change
Once the child’s new name is confirmed, you’ll be able to update it on:
- Passport
- NHS and medical records
- School and childcare records
- Bank accounts (if applicable)
- National Insurance records (if older child)
Start an Adoption Name Change Today
If you’re an adoptive parent wanting to update your child’s name, or an adopted person ready to make your own change, Change My Name offers a quick and affordable way to get started online from just £19.95.
FAQs: Adoption Name Change
Yes. This can be done at the time of adoption or later through a deed poll.
Yes, once an adoption is finalised, the adoption certificate replaces the original birth certificate and shows the child’s new legal identity.
Yes. If the child is under 16, everyone with parental responsibility must give consent.
Yes, once they turn 16, they can apply for their own deed poll.
