New parents are not registering new births in the numbers expected following the re-opening of Manchester Register Office - the Council is appealing to parents to urgently register their newborn
The recent lockdown saw many services temporarily close including the birth registration office due to covid-19, creating a backlog of registrations. But with fewer registrations received that the expected number of births, the registrars are urging parents to urgently get in contact and make an appointment.
Birth registration is a legal requirement and a child will not receive a birth certificate until registered. The birth certificate is a crucial document which a child will need throughout their life to prove their identity.
Ordinarily a birth must be registered within 42 days although for those parents who had children in March, April and May this year this was not possible.
If parents had a baby earlier this year and were not able to register the birth they should book an appointment slot now to register the child's birth at Heron House in Manchester City Centre by visiting: www.manchester.gov.uk/
Alternatively you can register the birth and obtain the birth certificate at our partner register offices. These are:
Salford Register Office
Call 0161 793 2500 or visit https://www.salford.gov.uk/
Bury Register Office
Call 0161 253 6026 to book an appointment.
Trafford Register Office
Call 0161 912 3026 to book an appointment.
Rochdale Register Office
Call 01706 924 784 to book an appointment.
Cllr Luthfur Rahman, Executive member for culture, leisure and skills, said: “Everyone has found the period of readjustment following lockdown different. Many of us may have put off tasks or even forgot about things we were meant to do. However, registering the birth of your child is absolutely vital.
“Not only is it a legal requirement but it is the basis of a child's legal identity. Without taking the time to arrange a quick and easy appointment there will only be complications further down the line.
“Please do not put it off any longer, get in contact with your local registrar's office and make an appointment. The brilliant staff will be able to guide you through the rest of the process.”