@neil @rpluim Thanks, Neil, that’s given me an idea.

(BTW, the text at https://support.apple.com/en-gb/125662 has been updated in the last day or so to specify that passports aren’t accepted ID by Apple; I’m pretty certain it didn’t say that on Tuesday evening.)

So I think I’m going to rock up to the Apple Store today and ask them politely what fallback methods they have for age verification.

If you’re asked to confirm that you’re an adult – Apple Support (UK)

When creating a new Apple Account or using Apple services, you might see a prompt to confirm that you’re an adult. This is required by law in some countries and regions.

Apple Support