Parental Separation and Divorce
Separation or divorce can be a difficult time for everyone. It can be especially confusing for children who may feel hurt, anger even relief then guilt. It is common for children to blame themselves for what is happening to their parents.
The NSPCC website has lots of useful resources but offers these important tips for parents to:
- remind children that they're loved by both parents
- be honest when talking about it but keep in mind the child's age and understanding
- avoid blame and don't share any negative feelings the adults have about each other
- keep up routines such as going to school and specific meal times
- let them know they can talk about their feelings with you – explain that it's okay to be sad, confused or angry
- listen more than you speak – answering questions will help them to open up
- tell school so that we can understand changes in your child's behaviour. When needed we may be able to support your child through special 1:1 support sessions
Your child may find it useful to look at this leaflet with you
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my-familys-changing-younger-children-leaflet | [pdf 1MB] |  |
These websites all contain useful advice for parents
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Relate |
| Telling the children advice page | |
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NSPCC |
| Separation and Divorce Page | |
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Young Minds |
| Divorces and Sepration- How can i help my child pages | |
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Gingerbread |
| Advice and Support Page for Single Parents | |
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Separation and Divorce Story Books for Children |
| Booktrust website | |
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Separated Parents Information Programme |
Separated Parents Information Programme
Please note: the Separated Parents Information Programme (SPIP) is currently being delivered remotely only.
The Separated Parents Information Programme (SPIP) is a course which helps you understand how to put your children first while you are separating, even though you may be in dispute with your child’s other parent or carer. The course helps parents learn the fundamental principles of how to manage conflict and difficulties – including how to put this in practice.
You will not attend the same session as your ex-partner. In some areas it is free to attend – you can contact your local provider for more information.
The Separated Parents Information Programme encourages you to take steps for yourselves; this may include developing agreements that do not need court intervention.
The Programme will give you ideas and signpost ways in which you can get help outside court. The majority of parents that go on the course find it very helpful.
Website - https://www.cafcass.gov.uk/grown-ups/parents-and-carers/divorce-and-separation/separated-parents-information-programme/
List of providers -https://www.cafcass.gov.uk/grown-ups/parents-and-carers/directory-of-providers/#A8
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SPIP-factsheet-042021 | [pdf 243KB] | |
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separated parents information programme-1 compressed | [pdf 13MB] | |