December 2005 saw the introduction of the Civil Partnership Act, 2004, which creates a new legal status for same-sex couples by having their partnership registered and, therefore, gaining recognition and access to a comprehensive package of rights and responsibilities currently denied to them. The consequences of this legislation are far-reaching, as it covers:-

• Parental responsibilities
• Children – residence and contact
• Aliment, intestacy, inheritance, damages
• Adoption
• Registering the death of a partner

and the recognition of the partnership as far as:-

• Council tax
• Local government elections
• Hospital visiting and medical treatment
• Giving evidence in court
• Prison visiting
• Fatal accident inquiry, burial, post mortems, organ retention
• Tenancy succession
• Survivor pensions – public service pension schemes and injury benefits
• Dissolution of the partnership

Same-sex couples can now gain legal recognition for their relationships and access many of the rights and responsibilities necessary for a stable family life.  

Anyone wishing further information on Civil Partnerships should contact Gretna Registration Office on 01461 337648.  Additional information can also be obtained from the Registrar General for Scotland.