Registering a Birth

Scottish Government legislation was changed on 24 September 2022 surrounding the registration of Births and parents are now permitted to register their child's birth remotely. 

Our service is exceptionally busy, therefore, please do not worry if your booked appointment takes you slightly over the 21 day statutory timeframe in which you should register a birth.

We are operating a strict appointment schedule and ask that you available at the agreed time booked. 

Birth Registration

Registration for all births will now be completed remotely by telephone appointment.  Please contact our offices on 01506 281897 or 01506 282914 to arrange an appointment. Alternatively you can email our Registration Team at - registration@westlothian.gov.uk

When and where can I register a Birth

A birth must be registered within 21 days of it's occurrence 

If the birth took place in Scotland it must be registered in any Registration Offices in Scotland

.

Who can register a birth

If the baby's parents are married to one another, or in a registered civil partnership with each other then either parent can act as the informant and register the birth.

If the baby's parents are not married to one another, or in a registered civil partnership with each other, then the mother must register the birth, as the primary informant. If the father/parent's name is also to be included on the registration documents, then both parents should be present during the telephone appointment. If this is not possible, please contact registration@westlothian.gov.uk for advice

What Information Will I Be Asked 

• The hospital will issue you with a birth card. This will have the date and time of the birth which will be asked by the Registrar
• Parents date and place of Marriage (where applicable)
• If not married BOTH parents will be asked to confirm Full Name as recorded on Birth Certificate, Date of Birth and Occupation (where applicable).

The registrar must be satisfied that the informant fully understands all of the questions asked during the registration.  If you need help with this please arrange for a family member or friend to be present to translate.  Please note if the parents are not married to each other then either parent cannot act as interpreter for the other and you must arrange to have a suitable person to  translate.

For more information please visit NRS - Births

Choosing a Name

The National Records of Scotland (opens new window) publish an annual list of the most popular boys and girls names.

Once the Birth is registered

There is no fee to register a birth. After registration the Registrar will issue

• An EC58 form - This is required to register the baby with an NHS doctor at your local surgery.
• An abbreviated birth certificate.

A full birth certificate purchased at the time or within one month of registration will cost £10.00. Thereafter £15.00.

Pregnancy and Baby Payment

You can be paid up to £600 if:

• you're going to have a baby
• you've had a baby in the last 6 months
• you've just started looking after a baby or young child who is not yours

There are some other things that will affect whether you can get the payment. These are:

• whether you're one of the main people who looks after a child you apply for
• what benefits or payments you get
• when you need to apply

Healthy Start Scheme

The Healthy Start scheme can help you buy basic foods like milk or fruit if you're:

• pregnant
• have a child under 4

If you're able to join the scheme you'll be sent vouchers you can spend in shops.

You can also get coupons to swap for free vitamins if you're:

• pregnant
• breastfeeding
• have a child aged between 6 months and 5 years

Find Out More - Get help with money if you're pregnant - mygov.scot

How to contact Social Security Scotland

Check if you are eligible for a payment, and apply online at mygov.scot/benefits