MN1 Application - Recent changes

[sdb79]

Hi,
I was about to apply for MN1 registration for my child using the postal method. Having filled in the form and gotten the referees to sign, I now notice certain changes online in the MN1 page which are quite confusing:


- There is no reference to a paper form or a postal method for applying. The previous link from which I downloaded the paper form is not working now. (The only paper form available now seems to be for residents of crown dependencies and overseas territories)

- The referee requirements have changed. Whereas the previous paper form asked for a reference from a health visitor/minister and another British citizen, the online form does not seen to require a reference from someone who has professionally known the child. Instead, both referees should know the child for 3 years - only one of them need be a British citizen while the other can be a non-citizen but should have "professional standing" and be a member of a professional body. Given that the child is less than a year old how can the referees be expected to know them for 3 years?

Can I still submit using the previous paper application via the postal route or is that option closed now? And does the new application form no longer need a reference from the health visitor? Finally, what exactly does professional standing mean here - for example do doctors count for this?

Appreciate any guidance and pointers as I am quite confused. Thanks in advance!