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How do I get a copy of my lost deed poll document? Urgent

31 replies

lukins66 · 01/09/2025 18:18

Around 23 years ago, I changed my surname after divorce, back to my maiden name. I then remarried & changed my surname to my husbands.
I have been trying to apply for my enhanced DBS.
They require the deed poll of change of name back to my maiden name.
i can’t find it anywhere.
20 + years ago & several house moves!
Is there any way I can get a copy urgently please?
I can’t even remember the name of the solicitors that I used.
Can anyone help me please?

OP posts:
lukins66 · 17/09/2025 14:50

@AnxiousPenguin I think it’s all going to take rather a long time. I started the process a few months ago, it usually takes a few weeks.
I’m keeping everything crossed for you and wish you a successful outcome.
If only I could find the missing document!

OP posts:
AnxiousPenguin · 17/09/2025 14:55

@lukins66 just in case this is a viable option... If you only need the deed poll to satisfy the workplace (i.e. they won't send your application to DBS without it), but they're happy for you to be refunded but you have to sort one yourself, would it be possible to get hold of an umbrella company that would help you out? Who knows, they might not require a deed poll. My "name change" isn't exactly a name change, but just a way for me to declare another way of saying my non-english name. So nobody asked me for a deed poll. Maybe it's worth reaching out to some umbrella companies for advice on how to proceed? Sorry if this isn't good advice, I'm just thinking of different means

lukins66 · 17/09/2025 15:10

@AnxiousPenguin Thank you, I will try some of the different options mentioned on here. I have googled it & been on several legal sites looking for advice. Some of the advice seems quite conflicting. I am finding it all very confusing.
The advice from @TheDayBeforeYouCame is really useful & I hadn’t seen this before, even though I googled & searched other legal site’s & forums.
It’s so frustrating! I was hoping to return to work after a long absence. I’m quite anxious about that in itself but I seem to keep finding obstacles every step of the way.
Feels like someone’s trying to tell me something!

OP posts:
prh47bridge · 17/09/2025 15:11

lukins66 · 17/09/2025 14:50

@AnxiousPenguin I think it’s all going to take rather a long time. I started the process a few months ago, it usually takes a few weeks.
I’m keeping everything crossed for you and wish you a successful outcome.
If only I could find the missing document!

To repeat what @Collaborate said up thread, you don't need to find the original deed poll document. Just create a new one using the wording at Change your name by deed poll: Make your own unenrolled deed poll - GOV.UK. Sign it with two witnesses and that's it, job done. No need to pay a solicitor or anyone else.

Change your name by deed poll

A deed poll recognises a change of name of an adult or child - make your own, use official forms, or get one through a specialist agency or solicitor.

https://www.gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll/make-unenrolled-deed-poll

lukins66 · 17/09/2025 15:15

@Bushwoolie That’s interesting.
The company I’m dealing with hasn’t suggested any useful help or advice.
I’m really glad that you got your DBS sorted.

OP posts:
lukins66 · 17/09/2025 15:24

Thank you @prh47bridge unfortunately, the company I’m dealing with are requesting the original deed poll. Even though I’ve told them that it’s lost. I don’t think they actually fully understand what the DBS requirements are. Especially where changes of name are concerned. I just reverted to my maiden name.
To be honest with you, I’m finding it all very confusing, but I’m hoping to try some of these options mentioned.

OP posts:
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