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How can I find people to witness my deed poll signature? Friends all said no šŸ˜ž

80 replies

NattyFawn · 18/06/2025 11:53

Hi all,
I’m in a bit of a bind and hoping someone here might have ideas. I’m legally changing my name via deed poll and need two adult witnesses to sign the document. Unfortunately, it can’t be family, and all the friends I asked said no (mostly because they’re unsure what it means or don’t want to share ID).
It literally takes under 5 minutes:
āœ… You just watch me sign
āœ… Then write your name, address, and signature
āœ… Show a quick form of ID (passport or driving license)
You’re not legally responsible for anything – just confirming you saw me sign.
I’m in Wembley but can travel a bit, and I’m happy to meet at a coffee shop or restaurant and cover your food as a thank you.
Has anyone had to do this before or have tips on how to find people who’d be open to helping? I’ve tried asking online, but people are understandably cautious.
Thanks so much šŸ™

OP posts:
Pinty · 19/06/2025 11:15

who do they have to show ID to? I have witnessed things and have had people witness things for me but haven't shown any ID. If they are just witnessing your signature and then you send the form off I don't understand who they have to show their ID to

Sisublondie · 19/06/2025 11:27

NewLifter · 19/06/2025 11:15

This is all very odd.

Is it your choice of name that's concerning your friends, like Princess Consuela Bannana Hammock or something?

Oh, I’d be signing that in a heartbeat!! šŸ’“ 😹

Crap Bag 😽

NewLifter · 19/06/2025 11:37

Sisublondie · 19/06/2025 11:27

Oh, I’d be signing that in a heartbeat!! šŸ’“ 😹

Crap Bag 😽

šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚

gattocattivo · 19/06/2025 11:42

Stoufer · 19/06/2025 11:04

Given that the Op has not returned to answer any questions, it does suggest that this original post was not all that it seemed on the surface.

For those (very kind-hearted) pp who suggested that they would be willing to meet up with Op and sign / provide info / bring ID - I would say, please be very cautious about any requests for personal info in future, wherever they come from.

I say this as someone from a household that has been the victim of a couple of types of fraud - it is extremely distressing when it happens. Myself, I am super cautious about everything as a result - I never give name / address / bank details etc out to anyone that contacts me for them. So that rules out (for example) signing up to charities in the street or on the door-step. And it involves never giving or confirming personal details on the phone when someone calls - I always take their details then call back on a trusted number from previous correspondence, or from their company website.

I wondered this as well. If people aren’t confident about why the OP is wanting to change her name, they may be wary. Solicitor is the answer.

Needtosoundoffandbreathe · 19/06/2025 13:10

Or maybe she's at work

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