Name change on documents

What this means for me.

Changing your name by deedpoll is the easy part Getting companies to change it is another matter. 

I had to delay changing my name due to moving and remortgaging, if I had changed it prior to getting the mortgage this may well have caused further issues and I didn't need this. The problem is that when changing one's name the financial companies don't seem to comprehend this and often don't link former name and new name together. 
So I delayed doing this, although it pains me to see my name on documents and accounts.

When we moved I went to the bank and asked what is needed. One person was fine, the other asked if I had got a divorce and when I said no asked why I was changing. That is none of their business and so I just said personal reasons, that was all that what is needed but why they expected an explanation was not necessary. Maybe Lloyds should consider some training in this area.
I will be heading back with deedpoll and hope all goes ok.

American Express were easy enough, a form and done very quickly, however I'm now down as MX CHe , they seem to think that is my first name. I can't be bothered to change it. It's better than deadname.

Sky, simple, all done via WhatsApp messenger and done quickly. Impressive.

Now DVLA. I completed the form with my new details, sent the deedpoll as asked and my old licence to them. Yesterday I got my license back. When I saw the envelope I was exited, when I saw the name on the envelope is was gutted.
They had put me down as Mx (deadname) Stephenson Hunter. To add insult to injury they sent the deedpoll back saying thanks for providing documents, so they had seen this.

So back to DVLA my new , but incorrect licence goes with the deedpoll and a strongly worded letter.

The amount of emotional energy going through this process with others not doing their job properly makes it so much harder. DVLA you too need training.

The things mentioned above may appear small, no one was killed or physically injured. However the emotional pain, discomfort when one is already dysphoric does not help and I just wish people would take the time to read, listen and think. Is that too much to ask?

If it wasn't a necessity I would not be doing this as it's draining, however if I don't transition and be my authentic self life would not be worth living for me. In time things may change for our community, I so hope it does for the better.






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