Yes. In the UK it takes a deed poll and costs very little. The friction is in the paperwork afterwards, not the change itself.

The short answer

In the UK an adult can change any part of their name, including a middle name, by deed poll. You do not need a court order, and you do not need a reason. A child's name can be changed by those with parental responsibility, with the child's consent from age sixteen.

What it actually costs

An unenrolled deed poll can be drawn up for a modest fee, and some people write their own. Enrolling it with the Royal Courts of Justice costs more and creates a public record. Most people never need to enrol.

The part people underestimate

Changing the name is easy. Changing every record that carries it is not: passport, driving licence, bank, employer, medical records, qualifications, insurance, and every account you have forgotten about. Budget a weekend, not an hour.

Adding rather than replacing

Many people who dislike their middle name simply stop using it. A middle name is the one name you are never required to use socially, which is precisely why parents feel able to take risks with it.

Questions parents ask

Do you need a solicitor to change a middle name?

No. In the UK an unenrolled deed poll can be prepared without a solicitor, and it is accepted by most organisations. Some institutions, and some countries, require an enrolled deed poll.

Can a child's middle name be changed?

Yes, by anyone with parental responsibility, and with the child's own consent once they are sixteen. Both parents with parental responsibility normally need to agree.