Name Change Trends in Southampton: Real Data from 406 Applicants

Thinking of changing your name in Southampton? You’re not alone. We analysed 406 deed poll applications and uncovered clear patterns in why people change their names, who is doing it, and what options they choose.

1) Why are people in Southampton changing their names?

Personal choice leads the way—people wanting a name that fits who they are.

Top reasons (count & %):

• Prefer a different name: 141 (35.6%)
  
• Other personal reasons: 112 (28.3%)
  
• Divorce: 65 (16.4%)
  
• Marriage: 42 (10.6%)
  
• Gender reassignment: 30 (7.6%)
  
• Civil partnership: 5 (1.3%)
  
• Widowed: 1 (0.3%)
  

2) Who’s changing their name? (Gender)

Women are the majority of applicants, but over a third are men.

Gender breakdown:

• Female: 259 (63.8%)
  
• Male: 142 (35.0%)
  
• Unknown/Other: 5 (1.2%)
  

3) How old are applicants?

The average age is 35.4 years. Most applications come from people between their late 20s and early 40s.

4) Which titles are most popular?

Traditional titles dominate Southampton applications.

Top 5 titles:

• Miss: 146
  
• Mr.: 142
  
• Mrs.: 93
  
• Ms.: 20
  
• Dr.: 4
  

5) Do people choose the Name Change Kit?

Yes—59.9% opted for the Name Change Kit, which helps notify banks, HMRC, DVLA, utilities and more.

Kit usage:

• Yes: 243 (59.9%)
  
• No: 163 (40.1%)
  

Key takeaways for Southampton

• Personal choice is the top driver (36%).
  
• Average applicant age: 35.4 years.
  
• Women make up 64% of applicants.
  
• Titles remain traditional (Miss & Mr. lead).
  
• 60% choose the Name Change Kit for convenience.