The child's mother or father should register the birth within 21 days. However, a father who is not married to the child's mother can only register a birth and be named on the birth certificate as the father if:

• he jointly signs the register with the mother, or
• a court has declared that he is the father, or
• the mother and he jointly sign a declaration available from the Registrar.

If the child's mother and father are unable to register the birth for reasons of incapacity, the following can register the baby's birth:

• any person present at the birth, or
• anybody living in the premises where the birth took place, or
• a relative of the mother or father (if they are married), or
• any person having legal charge of the baby.

Where Do You Register A Birth?

The baby's birth should be registered either in the district where the birth took place, or the district where the mother permanently lives. Ask at the hospital for the address of the local registrar, or check the telephone directory under "Registration of Births, Marriages and Deaths".

What Evidence Do I Need To Provide?

The registrar will require:

• the baby's parents' marriage certificate, and
• the card given to you by the hospital.

If either of these documents are not available, go to the registrar anyway. Do not wait longer than the 21 days required by law.

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Author: Tony Luck who runs a site where you can get help to raise a baby.