I have read that you can change your name by deed poll simply by completing a written document and having it witnessed by someone - hence no cost for solicitors or other greedy agents. Is this true?
You can call yourself what ever you like, as long as you don't use your new name for illegal purposes, so from that point of view, a name-change is free. If you need to change official documents - passport, driving licence, etc. this may prove slightly more problematical - a call to your local CAB may help, or a visit (should be minimal cost) to a solicitor so you can avoid further grief and expense in the future.