Since the pandemic began, our family team has seen an increase in requests for childcare arrangements allowing for equal care of children from separated families.
This rise is likely due to the widespread introduction of agile working, with the flexibility this brings providing separated parents with more time to take on equal childcare responsibilities.
Now that COVID-19 has proven that many roles do not need to be office-based, remote working looks to be the future for a large number of businesses. As such, children are now able to spend an increased amount of time with both parents, causing ‘shared care’ to more literally mean ‘equal care’; something that wasn’t possible for many working parents pre-pandemic.
All these things considered, it’s no surprise that we’ve seen an uplift in requests from parents wanting to change existing arrangements, as well as most new agreements being approached in a more equal manner.
Helen Bowns, head of our family team, said: “The pandemic has altered the way we live and work and thankfully, there are positive outcomes. The move from office to home-based working means children can more easily spend time with both parents.
“Putting the needs and wishes of the children first when divorcing or separating provides a solid foundation for most agreements and this shift is good news for both children and parents alike.
“Many couples that have reached an agreement may now be prompted to revisit their current child arrangements to reflect their new ways of working. Active and equal involvement from both parents where possible is suggested for the benefit of the children, and we encourage separated couples to reflect on what arrangement is best for their children, in light of the new circumstances we are all living in. Now is the time to seize the opportunity to make positive changes”
Making or reviewing existing child arrangements
Our step-by-step guide explains the the process and the approaches available when making child arrangements if you're going through, or have gone through, a divorce or separation.
We’re here to help
If you’d like advice or support with reviewing and making changes to existing child arrangements then our team of specialist family solicitors can help. Our child-centric approach ensures that the best outcome is achieved for the children.
No matter where you are on your journey, we can help to support and guide you through the process. Contact us confidentially today by calling 0330 024 0333, or filling out our enquiry form and someone will get in touch with you shortly.
Our free legal helpline also offers bespoke guidance on a range of subjects, with a team of experts on hand for any queries relating to personal and family matters. Available from 10am-12pm Monday to Friday, call 0800 689 4064.
The uncertainty of what’s to come as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic is understandably keeping many people awake at night but, whilst the scope of what our future may look like is still evolving, one aspect that can be controlled is putting measures and provisions in place to plan for the future and protect the wealth of you and your family. Our guide to recovery and resilience highlights the opportunities currently out there for effective wealth planning that will make a real difference.
