Family relationships

Arguments, separation, divorce, co-parenting, child contact

An adult embraces 2 children sitting either side of them on a sofa. They are all smiling, laughing and looking at each other.

Child contact arrangements with a co-parent

As co-parents you’ll need to decide together how much time your child will spend with each of you. This process can feel hard.

Co-parenting with a controlling ex-partner

If you're worried your ex-partner or co-parent is trying to control you, it's important to understand what you can do and where to go for help.

Helping your child adjust to a blended family

Adjusting to a new family set-up is a time of change for everyone. It might take a while to build new routines.

Coping with not seeing your child

Missing your child when you don't see them can feel devastating. Understand your rights as a parent and know where to go for support.

Helping your child adjust to separation or divorce

It can be hard for children to adjust to separation. You can help them feel supported and reassured.

How to co-parent with your ex partner

Co-parenting can be one of the biggest challenges for separated partners but it can also be a positive experience.

How to manage arguments with your partner

If you’re having lots of difficult conversations with your partner, you might need to think about how you manage these.

Look after a friend or relative’s child as a kinship carer

Looking after a friend or relative’s child as a kinship carer can be a rewarding and challenging experience.

Supporting a child with a family member in prison

It can be upsetting for a child if someone they are close to is arrested or sent to prison. You’ll want to support the child through this difficult time.

Coming out as LGBTQ+ to your child

You will know best how to communicate with your child, but here are some things to consider when coming out to your child.

How to have a good relationship with your child when you don’t live with them

Keeping in regular contact and making the most of your time together can help build a good relationship.

What to do if your child doesn’t want to see you

If your child doesn’t live with you all the time, they might not always want to meet on arranged days.

Dealing with disagreements about parenting styles

Many parents have different ideas about how to parent their children, whether they are together or separated.

How to support your partner’s children

If your partner has children from a previous relationship, you can provide a supportive, loving home for the child.

How to ask your partner to help more at home

When you feel like your partner isn’t doing their fair share, it can have a huge effect on you.

Help if you’re worried your child isn’t safe with their other parent

If you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing, there are some steps you can take.

Leaving a relationship when you have a child

Leaving a relationship is never an easy choice, especially if you have a child. You can take steps to help your family cope.

Advice if your child is a young carer

Some children may have extra care responsibilities at home, supporting a family member with physical or emotional needs.

Help if you’re being abused by a partner or co-parent

Abuse can take many forms, but if you think you could be being abused by someone you parent with, get help as soon as you can.

Support your child if they’re worried about seeing their other parent

When you’re separated, children can sometimes develop worries about seeing their other parent.

Co-parenting at Christmas

Christmas can be a challenging time for separated parents. If you can, work together to plan with your child in mind.