Co-parenting after a separation or divorce

Co-parenting after a divorce or separation involves working together to raise your children while prioritising their needs and well-being. While this can be very difficult at first, it will pay dividends in the future if you can agree on various things, like where the children will live and when and where they will see the parent they do not live with, where they will go to school, etc.

Cafcass (the service that advises the family courts about the welfare of children and what is in their best interests) offers a free Parenting Plan template. You can download a Word version here, or use their online tool to work on one collaboratively with your ex.

You can ask the court to formalise your Parenting Plan into a court order (called a Child Arrangements Order). However, there is usually no need to do this, and you would only go to court in relation to your children if you and your partner cannot agree.

Many of the people I work with contact me before they have made any firm decisions about their future. Whether you are considering separation, have recently separated, or simply want to understand your options, I offer a free initial conversation to discuss your circumstances and how I may be able to help. You can contact me by telephone - 0777 589 4910, email - polly@pollyjackman.com or by using the contact form on this website.