Legal News | The Data (Use and Access) Bill: What It Means for Clients

The UK government’s Data (Use and Access) Bill is progressing through Parliament, bringing significant changes to the way data is managed and accessed. While the bill covers a wide range of areas, including digital verification services and smart data initiatives, one of the most relevant aspects for our clients is the reform of the registration process for births, deaths, and marriages.

Key Changes to Birth, Death, and Marriage Registration

Under the new legislation, the traditional paper-based system for recording life events will transition to a fully electronic register. This marks a major shift in how individuals and families interact with the registration system, offering several key benefits:

Streamlined Administration – The move to digital records will reduce delays and paperwork, making it easier for individuals to access official documents when needed.

Improved Security – Digital registration will enhance the security of personal records, reducing the risk of fraud and lost documents.

Greater Accessibility – With records available electronically, individuals will find it simpler to obtain copies of birth, death, or marriage certificates without needing to visit a registry office in person.

For clients managing estate planning, wills, and probate, these changes are particularly significant. Access to accurate and secure records is essential when dealing with inheritance matters, and a modernised system should ensure a smoother process when verifying identities and relationships.

Other Key Aspects of the Bill

Beyond registration changes, the bill introduces several other reforms, including:

Digital Verification Services – Establishing a framework for trusted digital identity providers to simplify online interactions with businesses and government services.

Smart Data Initiatives – Expanding consumer rights to securely share financial and utility data with authorised providers.

National Underground Asset Register – Enhancing the mapping of underground infrastructure to improve public works projects.

Data Protection Reforms – Updating the UK’s data protection framework to balance innovation with privacy rights.

How This Affects Clients

For individuals handling personal affairs, the introduction of electronic birth, death, and marriage records is a welcome development. The ability to securely access and share these documents will facilitate legal and financial processes, from probate applications to estate planning.

At Garner & Hancock, we understand the importance of accurate and accessible personal records in private client matters. If you have any questions about how these changes may impact you or your estate planning needs, get in touch with our expert team today.