Opinion

Separated families - let's stop thinking in terms of stereotypes

Policy & Politics
Nick Woodall of the Centre for Separated Families explains how proposed legislation could transform the way society views lone parenting, placing a new emphasis on shared parenting after divorce or separation

The majority of parents manage to reach agreement about how they will both continue to provide care for their children after divorce or separation. But for those who are unable to, the only means of resolving disputes is through the family courts. Whether the courts are involved or not, in too many cases one parent is left in a position where it is almost impossible to retain a strong and influential relationship with his or her child. This can result in a child losing contact completely with one parent, usually the father, often with a lasting impact on their lives.

The Coalition Government believes that parents who are able and willing to play a positive role in their child's care, after separation, should have the opportunity to do so. As a result, they are in the process of introducing a legislative amendment to the Children Act 1989 that will apply to private law disputes about the parenting patterns for children after divorce or separation.

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