Parental responsibility and consent
So what's parental responsibility?
Parental responsibility (PR) is the legal rights and duties you have to make major decisions for a child under 18 — schooling, medical care, name, travel, where they live. It ends at 18, and you can’t give it up; only a court can remove it.
Who has it automatically in England & Wales):
• Birth mother — always.
• Father / second parent — if married to the mother or in a civil partnership at birth, or if jointly registered on the birth certificate on or after 1 Dec 2003.
How others get it:
• Unmarried fathers, step-parents and second parents can get PR by a Parental Responsibility Agreement or a court order.
• Grandparents, aunts, uncles or family friends need a court order — usually a Child Arrangements Order or Special Guardianship Order.
Why do we ask for consent?Consent means agreeing freely, without pressure, and with a full understanding of the procedure, aftercare and risks.
The law in England
- There is no national minimum age for ear or most facial/body piercings.
- Intimate piercings on under-18s can be treated as an assault under sexual offences law. In England many councils set 18+ as a licence condition.
Our studio policy – Liverpool City Council licensed
We follow local licensing conditions and UK industry best practice. Photo ID is required for every client.
No valid ID = no piercing, and your deposit will be forfeited. By booking, you confirm you have read and accept this policy.
- Under 16: We will only pierce with a parent or legal guardian present for the whole procedure. The parent/guardian must give written consent and bring proof of parental responsibility, and the child must understand the procedure.
- Ages 16–17: You can consent yourself for most piercings with valid photo ID. For tongue, bridge, and eyebrow piercings we also require parental consent, and the parent/guardian must attend in person with ID.
- 18+: Bring your own photo ID. We do not perform nipple piercings on anyone under 18. This is studio policy, and stricter than the legal minimum.
This information reflects current Liverpool City Council guidance and UK law as of 2026. It is not legal advice
What to bring (originals only – no photos on your phone)
• You: passport, driving licence, or PASS card showing photo and date of birth.
• Parent: your photo ID plus proof of parental responsibility for the child: ◦ child's full birth certificate naming you, or
◦ adoption certificate, or
◦ court order confirming you are the legal guardian or have parental responsibility.