If you commonly use a name that is different or partly different to your actual name, you can ask for your commonly used name(s) to be used instead of your actual name.1
You may state a commonly used forename, surname or both.
For example, you may be known by your abbreviated name Andy, rather than your full first name Andrew. In that case you can write, Andy into the commonly used forename box on the nomination paper if you would rather that name appear on the ballot paper.
You may also use initials as part of your commonly used name if you are commonly known by them.
The commonly used name(s) would then appear on:
the statement of persons nominated and the notice of poll
the ballot paper
Decisions on Commonly Used Names
The Regional Returning Officer (RRO) will disallow commonly used names that are likely to mislead or confuse electors, or are obscene or offensive. If the name(s) are not permissible, the RRO will write to you stating the reason for rejection. In those cases, your actual name will be used instead.2
If either the commonly used forename or surname box on the nomination form is left blank, then the candidate’s actual forename or surname, depending on which commonly used name box has been left blank, will be used.
It is an offence to give a false statement on the nomination form.3
Therefore if the candidate chooses to provide a commonly used name, they must ensure that it is a forename or surname which they commonly use.