Notices
Big changes to modernise marriage registration
| Big changes to modernise marriage registration |
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New legislation coming into force this week is set to modernise marriage registration for the first time since 1837. The Marriage Schedule System will move away from the current paper register (the traditional book which is signed by the couple and their witnesses) to a more secure system for keeping marriage records. The electronic register will also allow for the names of multiple parents of the couple to be included in the marriage entry and on marriage certificates – previously only fathers’ names were included. This move brings the system in line with the one already used for registering Civil Partnerships. Couples will notice two main differences when it comes to their ceremonies. Firstly, they will not sign in an old-fashioned register book, but instead they and their witnesses will sign a single sheet of paper called a ‘Schedule’ that is unique to the couple. Secondly, it will no longer be possible to provide a marriage certificate on the day of the ceremony. Couples will be legally married from the moment they say their vows, but certificates will now be posted to them within five working days. Couples who have already given notice do not need to take any special steps. Somerset County Council’s Registration Service will take care of all the changes to paperwork and will give couples the option of adding extra parents to the schedule on their big day. The new changes will present a technical hitch for some couples. Some honeymoon offers require proof of marriage to validate a special offer, or the couple may be travelling to a country where couples must be legally wed to share a room. As the certificate will not be available for up to five working days, couples are advised to check in advance what other proof businesses or travel destinations will accept. Genevieve Branch, Somerset County Council Service Manager for Registration Services, said: “Registrars across the county are being prepped for the new changes, and our Somerset team are excited to start implementing the new, more inclusive system. With more streamlined paperwork behind the scenes and a better representation of modern families on couples’ landmark documents, this really is a welcome move for the wedding industry.” |
Somerset young people invited to take part in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
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Following the recent death of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Somerset’s Duke of Edinburgh Award team have set themselves a challenge to find 100 young people of any ability aged 14-24 to take part remotely in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. Young people inspired by the recent media attention about the DofE charity are encouraged to get in touch to learn new skills, take part in physical activities and gain an award at the end. The Somerset DofE team is experienced in working with young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) to create an individual and flexible plan to support any young person to achieve their award. Those who started an award at a school, college or in a group such as Guides or Scouts, but didn’t finish are also encouraged to get in touch as the team can help them locate their old account details and provide support to achieve an award. Carol Authers, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Operations Manager at Somerset County Council, said: “We want to acknowledge the Duke’s amazing legacy and inspiring impact on generations of young people by ensuring that every young person in Somerset has the opportunity to take part. “The awards have a strong commitment to inclusivity, so we encourage all young people to apply regardless of background, circumstance, culture, religion and ability. The valuable skills that they learn equip them to succeed in life.” A Somerset Bursary Fund offers grants to enable disadvantaged young people in Somerset to complete a DofE programme. Those aged between 14-24 living in Somerset who would like to know more are encouraged to get in touch by emailing DofE@somerset.gov.uk Since the DofE Awards began in 1956, over 6.7 million young people in the UK have participated. Young people do DofE programmes at one of three progressive levels. When successfully completed, this leads to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. For more information about the scheme, visit: www.dofe.org |
One year on – a day to reflect and remember – 23rd March 2021
One year on – a day to reflect and remember
| A minute’s silence will be held by Somerset County Council to mark a National Day of Reflection, remembering those who sadly lost their lives during the pandemic and to show support for everyone who has been bereaved. |
| Initiated by end of life charity Marie Curie, the National Day of Reflection is due to take place on Tuesday 23 March – the anniversary of the UK going into the first national lockdown. |
| The flag at County Hall will also fly at half-mast as a sign of respect for all those taken before their time by Covid-19 and for the bereaved they have left behind. County Hall will be lit up in blue and green in the evening to honour the emergency services. |
| An online ‘Covid reflection’ page has been made available for members of the public to share their own personal reflection messages – which will remain as a permanent reminder of the last year. |
| Anyone who wishes to take part and would like to add their own reflection message, photo or poem to the ‘Covid reflection’ memorial page can do so by emailing communications@somerset.gov.uk |
