Always include child's biological father on birth certificate

88
signatures
closedHome OfficeOpened 29 October 2025Closed 29 April 2026

Background

Right now in the UK, a father who is not married to or in a civil partnership with his child's mother cannot be added to his child’s birth certificate without the mother’s agreement — unless he goes through a long, costly court battle.

Additional details

This means some children are being denied the love, care, and protection of both parents from day one. We are calling for change: if a government-approved DNA test proves paternity, then a father should have the right to be added to the birth certificate and gain automatic parental responsibility — no court needed. Children need both parents. We think the current system fuels conflict, endless family court battles, and the Child Maintenance Service. Let DNA decide, not the courts.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 743216.