Births
Registering a Birth
Every birth in England or Wales must be registered in the
local Registry Office where the birth took place within 42 days of the date of birth. If you can't go to this district you can go to another office (still within 42 days) and that registrar will send your details to the appropriate district office.
You will receive a short birth certificate and a registration card that you will need to complete and take to your local GP surgery. You won't be able to register your child with a doctor without this registration card and you will need the birth certificate for a number of reasons including Child Benefit applications.
Registering a birth is free, although you will have to pay a small fee if you want to purchase a full birth certificate.
Baby Naming Ceremonies
The birth of your child is a very special occasion and you may wish to formally celebrate his or her arrival with family and friends. A naming ceremony is a unique way of doing this.
The secular ceremony is an opportunity to welcome your child into your family and the wider community and to publicly pledge your love and support to them.
Every ceremony is personal to you and your child in the readings and promises you choose. Supporting adults and grandchildren can make their own promises and you may wish to give a special gift to your child during the ceremony.
A fully trained professional celebrant will conduct the ceremony at one of our register offices or one our approved local venues. For further advice and assistance, please contact
Harrogate Registry Office.