Next of kin is usually defined as the nearest relative by blood or marriage. A civil partner will be acceptable, as a wife or husband is always acceptable, as the legal next of kin.

Someone you live with as a bidie-in can be your next of kin.

If your preferred next of kin is not your civil partner, especially if your next of kin may need to make decisions on your behalf, you may wish to name in writing your preferred next of kin. This can be done in a will or in a separate document.