Co-parenting for separated parents

It can be difficult to navigate co-parenting after a divorce or separation. You may be thinking about the practical arrangements, supporting your child and how to cope emotionally. Our advice section can help you with all the different aspects of co-parenting. You may need advice on creating a co-parenting plan which can help both parents and perhaps how to cope with school holidays. We also have advice on contact issues including renewing contact, how to manage routines for the children in different households and the importance of keeping to your contact arrangements.

We understand that it can feel like a very isolating and stressful time when you are going through a separation or a divorce, but we are here for you. 

We’re here for families

The most frequent issue from parents who get in touch with us is for advice around divorce and separation. We understand the emotional toll and frustration of co-parenting, especially if the other parent is not willing to work with you. We understand that a relationship breakdown can cause resentment and prevent parents from working together to bring up their children.

If you are finding things difficult, you can call us on our helpline on 0808 800 222, send us a message on WhatsApp on 07441 444125, talk to us via our live chat service or email us at askus@familylives.org.uk

We have a dedicated section on our forums on all topics related to divorce and separation Our forums are a safe space if you would like to share issues or dilemmas with others who understand what you are going through. Our forums are moderated by our team of moderators who are trained to provide support to families.

How we produce our online advice

Our articles are written by our family support workers, and they have years of experience supporting families with relevant issues and taking calls, emails or answering live chats. Our articles are never generated by AI. In a few cases, our information articles have been guest-written by an external expert who has specific knowledge of the subject area, and the guest author is made clear on the article page itself. Find out more about how we produce our online advice.

Our co-parenting advice articles

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Find advice and information about co-parenting after a divorce or a separation.

Useful organisations

CAFCASS looks after the interests of children involved in family proceedings. It works with children and their families, and then advises the courts on what it considers to be in the children's best interests.

Separating Better App is a free co-parenting app created by One Plus One to help navigate separation for your child’s wellbeing

Both Parents Matter are dedicated to supporting dads, mums, and grandparents in fostering personal contact and meaningful connections with their children through information, advice and support.

How we can help

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Family Lives services are free to access and here to support you with parenting and family challenges. Get one-to-one support through our free helpline on 0808 800 2222live chat or message us via WhatsApp on 07441 444125 to connect with experienced professional family support workers and highly-trained volunteers. Take one of our self-guided online parenting courses to learn skills to help you in your family life. Find out more about the different services we offer below.

About Family Lives

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Find out more about our work with families, our history and our mission and values.