A parenting plan is a document that outlines the responsibilities of each parent after separation regarding the care of their children. These agreements typically cover important details such as where the children will live, who will be responsible for their care, and for what periods of time. This document is not legally binding; to make it legally binding, you can convert it into a court order.
Child Focused Approach
Under English law, parents are encouraged to develop a parenting plan rather than entering court processes.
The parenting plan aims to help you provide a loving, stable, caring, and safe environment for your children after your separation, in line with their age and needs. Agreeing on a parenting plan means you respect each other as parents and your significance in the life of your children.
When creating a parenting plan, the child’s best interests will always be our top priority. You can involve your children in the mediation process by inviting them to child inclusive mediation and asking about their wishes and feelings. The feedback you receive after your child’s session will help you make better arrangements.
Download my leaflet: what about me? Child Inclusive Mediation
Parenting Plan Contents
Working with me may include considering the following factors that affect the circumstances of your child:
- What are the living arrangements for the child;
- How will the child spend time with the parents;
- What happens on special occasions (birthdays, religious celebrations and so on);
- How are changeovers organised;
- How are holidays (in the country and overseas) organised;
- Who keeps and maintains the child’s passport;
- The child’s GP and dental practice and how parents make decisions about the child’s health;
- The child’s education and decisions about change of school;
- How is the day to day care of the child communicated between the parents;
- How do the parents discuss and make major decisions for the child
- How do the parents deal with future disputes.
This list is not exhaustive as every family is different and you may want to discuss other things. Those matters may include parental responsibility, what happens if one parent wants to relocate or what religion, culture and language the child should be raised in.
Download my leaflet: Parenting Plan
Parenting Plan Cost
The total cost of your parenting plan will depend on the number of sessions you will need to agree on its contents (usually 2-4 sessions). Part or all of this cost can be covered by the family mediation voucher (see below).
The document drafted by me after you have finalised your discussions costs £198. This cost is usually split between parents, so each parent pays £99.
Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
The family mediation voucher scheme is designed to support parents who wish to resolve their child arrangements outside of court. As your mediator, I will apply for the voucher, which has a value of up to £500 per family.
Download my leaflet: Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
I Need a Parenting Plan
To start working on your parenting plan follow this simple process.
- Book an obligation free initial consultation with me here.
- Complete your MIAM
- I will invite the other parent to complete their MIAM
- If mediation is not suitable, I will issue the C100 certificates
- If mediation is suitable, you will sign an Agreement to Mediate and, if you wish so, provide me with your consent to apply for your family mediation voucher (up to £500 per family). At that point, we can start working on your parenting plan.