As children grow up, their needs will change. It is important that you remain open and flexible to the idea that arrangements agreed with a child’s other parent may need to be reviewed.
For example, as children get older, they may want to spend more time with their friends and this may affect the agreed arrangements. This is because the children have their own interests and activities they may wish to pursue and this should not be seen as a negative.
Here are some tips to consider when changing the arrangement:
- Communicate with each other. It is important you maintain open and honest communication and keep the other parent updated about the children’s lives. When agreeing the arrangements, it is sensible to agree dates to review them (e.g when the child starts full-time school or secondary school) to ensure the arrangements are meeting the child’s needs.
- Mediation. If you are unable to agree how to change the arrangements, you should try mediation. This involves a neutral third party who will assist you to resolve or narrow down the issues.
- Court application. if there is already a Child Arrangements Order (“CAO”) in place, you need to apply to the Court for a variation of the CAO. Alternatively, if there is no CAO then you may wish to consider making an application for a CAO as this will be a legally binding document that parties must adhere to.
It is important to remember that it is the child’s right to have a relationship with both their parents provided it is safe and in their best interests. When agreeing the arrangements, you should always keep in mind the impact and benefit the child will have from these arrangements.
If you would like advice on any of the issues raised in this article, please contact Irrum Shah, Solicitor in our Family Law Department on 01295 204154, or by email at ishah@se-solicitors.co.uk
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