Contact between your child and their other parent: a guide for lone parents

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December 2007

Read this factsheet below or download as a PDF.

It is generally acknowledged that it is usually in the best interests of a child to be able to continue and develop their relationship with both parents as well as with other relatives. However, it is recognised that contact should be safe both for the child and for you. You cannot make a non-resident parent or anyone else have contact with your child even if the child wants contact and it would be in the best interests of the child.

This factsheet explains the things to think about when making arrangements for contact, what can help parents to come to agreements about contact and what to do if there are disputes and/or other problems with contact arrangements.

Considering your children's needs when deciding on any arrangements for them

Coming to agreements about contact

Planning ahead

What decisions can the non resident parent make during contact visits?

If your child refuses contact with their other parent

What happens if I refuse to allow contact to take place?

Going to court if you cannot reach an agreement about contact

The court process

When will a court refuse contact?

What are contact centres?

Contact and paying child maintenance

Contact and holiday arrangements

Further help and information

For more information about matters to do with arrangements for children ask the Lone Parent Helpline (0800 018 5026) for our related factsheets:

Parental Responsibility - rights and responsibilities of parents who live apart: a guide for lone parents

Residence - where a child normally lives: a guide for lone parents

Help with reaching agreements when a relationship ends

Getting legal help

Contact factsheet (PDF 202KB)

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