*This is a sponsored editorial courtesy of Consilia Legal
The Government has announced a five-day relaxation of lockdown restrictions over Christmas so we can spend time with family and friends.
Christmas can be a stressful time for many families and can be made more difficult where parents are separated and trying to create the best experience for their children who may be spending their time between each parent’s home. Of course, a global pandemic adds to the mix of chaos and difficulties.
This blog explores why parents should start to make childcare plans for the festive period as soon as possible and what the current lockdown restrictions might mean for separated parents.
What are the COVID Christmas Rules?
Between the 23rd and 27th of December you can:
Existing support bubbles will count as one household towards the three household limit.
It is worth remembering that children under the age of 18 whose parents do not live together, are free to move between households and can therefore form part of both parent’s Christmas bubbles.
Your Children’s Enjoyment
Christmas is a magical time for children and so it is worth remembering to consider what they will enjoy the most as opposed to what you would like to happen. All families are different and there are many considerations to bear in mind, particularly in 2020 so it is vital not to forget your children’s wishes and feelings.
Have a Conversation
Opening discussions about Christmas now will allow plenty of time to compromise and reach agreement around each parent’s plans and expectations. Keep discussions as polite and open as possible, remembering that what may seem like a good idea for one parent may not be for the other.
Due to coronavirus, it may be that what worked last year may not work again this year. Both parents should be alive to this idea and prepared to make alternative arrangements. Once again, this stresses the importance of having open and polite conversations and starting them as early as possible.
If a discussion takes place and an agreement is reached between both parents, it may be worth getting that agreement in writing so that the plans are clear. An email will suffice here.
How Can We Help?
Problems arranging time spent with your child or children over the Christmas period may highlight general problems you may be having spending time with your children. Mediation may be a good way to discuss this with your ex-partner if you do not feel that you are able to discuss matters directly. By attending mediation you will be able to have constructive discussions and voice your concerns with a qualified mediator present to ensure that the discussions are amicable and that both parties are able to voice their concerns. For mediation to work both parties need to be open minded and willing to negotiate and compromise and take into account what is in the best interest of the child or children. Following mediation if you are able to reach an agreement this can be drawn up in a Memorandum of Understanding that both parents sign and the mediator to document what was agreed and discussed.
It maybe that you require legal advice and as a solicitor we can provide you with specific legal advice and help you reach an agreement with your ex-partner by way of correspondence with them. If need be we can also make an application to court for a Child Arrangement Order to determine the time that you spend with the child or children if mediation is not successful.
As a member of Mumbler we offer a 10% discount on our fees and we also offer an initial free meeting to discuss your matter. We are transparent with fees and in many circumstance we can agree fixed fees depending on the matter in hand that can be discussed in the free initial meeting.
If you would like further information or to make an appointment to see one of our qualified solicitor mediators please contact Consilia Legal on 0113 322 9222 or email us at enquiries@consilialegal.co.uk.
