Legal action through the courts isn't your only option. The most important thing is to remember that Christmas is a time for children, and ultimately their wants and needs should come before your own
But, for divorced and separated parents, which account for 2.9 million families in the UK, these plans are more complicated than for others. Sadly, in some instances separated parents find themselves unable to come to an arrangement that works for them both, inevitably leading to legal disputes.
Already this year, we are seeing huge backlogs in the courts for divorced and separated couples who have been unable to reach an agreement on custody for the holidays. And, unfortunately, this means for many they may not be able to reach an agreement in time for Christmas.
For the children caught up in the midst of this, it can be an incredibly difficult time and something that should be avoided wherever possible.
Understanding your options
The good news is that legal action through the courts isn't your only option. There are other ways that can help to resolve these issues more quickly, cheaply, and harmoniously, while also helping to protect your children's best interests – which, after all, is the most important factor in any parent's decision-making.
In fact, the preference of the courts is for parents to be encouraged to make decisions jointly for their own child, rather than involving them.
With Christmas just around the corner, many families will be making plans for where they will be spending the festive period, whether this is staying at home, taking a trip or visiting extended family.
For many it is the most important time of the year, and a chance to make wonderful memories with your children
Mediation is a practice used by separating couples for a variety of reasons but can be particularly helpful when it comes to resolving arrangements for children. Mediators are trained to help parents improve their communication and assist couples in identifying solutions that achieve lasting resolutions.
Mediation is a practice used by separating couples for a variety of reasons but can be particularly helpful when it comes to resolving arrangements for children. Mediators are trained to help parents improve their communication and assist couples in identifying solutions that achieve lasting resolutions.
Top tips for separated parents
Of course, it is to be hoped that mediation, arbitration, and legal action can all be avoided – for the sake of both the parents and the children.
Here are a few tips for planning ahead for the children at Christmas:
The most important thing is to remember that Christmas is a time for children, and ultimately their wants and needs should come before your own. And, linked to this, any disagreements should be kept away from them.
It's also very helpful to start thinking about your Christmas plans early. Although it can be tempting to put off thinking about the festive period, the sooner you start discussing plans, the more time you will have to agree them.
Remember that you will need to compromise. You may have been used to celebrating in a particular way, but you will have to change some of these decisions.
It is a time for celebration, so keep this in mind and try not to get to drawn into the logistics that it takes away from your – and your children's – enjoyment.
Cymru Online – 02/12/2022
