We are making changes to Register Office arrangements
Registering the birth of a baby is an important moment for a new family. Sadly, our Register Offices at our Town Halls now need to postpone this service until the end of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic period.
This is because births have to be registered in person by one or both parents and we need to protect everyone from the coronavirus (Covid-19). We have to limit movement across the district and promote social distancing for both the public and staff.
How can families make a claim for benefits without this?
Families can now claim for child benefit or universal credit prior to the birth being registered. These changes have been directed by the General Register Office.
We have also had to make some other changes to the way other work is carried out at the Register Office. We recognise that this will mean postponing big events in people’s lives, and regret that these decisions have had to be made, but we need to follow national guidelines to try to keep everyone safe and well.
What about other registration services?
All weddings, civil partnership and citizenship ceremonies have had to be postponed. If anyone needs to get in touch about this, they should email kirklees.ceremonies@kirklees.gov.uk and someone will respond as soon as possible. Please note that priority is to rearranging existing bookings at the moment. New bookings will be picked up in due course.
Anyone needing to register deaths and still-births, should book an appointment online or telephone Huddersfield 01484 221030 or Dewsbury 01924 324733.
I need to pick up a certificate. What should I do now?
Face to face applications for certificates, e.g. death certificates, are not currently available, so please do not come to the office. Certificates can be ordered via the council website and will be posted to your home address. Alternatively, you can telephone 01484 221030 or 01924 324733 to order a copy over the phone.
Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Corporate, Kirklees Council, said:
“Our staff have been working hard to ensure we can continue business as usual. However, we must adhere to government restrictions and to prevent the spread of Covid-19, this is necessary to keep our residents and employees safe.”
These are difficult times for us all however, if we all stay at home and ensure we keep social distancing when we go out to the shops, or for our daily exercise, then we will get through this quicker and protect our NHS, and its hard working staff.”
People are being encouraged to subscribe to email alerts from Kirklees Council at www.kirklees.gov.uk/stayconnected and follow the council on Facebook and Twitter.