With school summer holidays in full swing, there’s often the issue of those summer holidays being potentially difficult to navigate between separated parents.
There is no right or wrong answer as to what arrangements for children should look like during summer holidays. Every family is different and everyone has their own commitments.
If a child is already enjoying a good level of time with each parent, then usually summer holidays are divided between parents so that time can be extended and shared. Often agreements can be reached between parties through communication.
With holidays abroad it is best to be mindful that if you do want to take the children abroad, that you will need permission of everyone who has parental responsibility in respect of the children.
In these circumstances it is best to obtain written consent from those with parental responsibility ahead of any holiday abroad. You should think about the logistical and practical arrangements for collection and return of passports and consent forms for passport control so that there are no issues when leaving and returning to the UK.
Matters are somewhat different if you have a Child Arrangements Order specifying that the children live with you. This is commonly known as a “lives with” order.
If you have such an order which specifies that the children are to live with you, then you are permitted to take the children abroad for up to 28 days without the consent of the other parent.
Regardless, we would always advise that out of courtesy and to avoid any parental conflict, it is best to liaise with the other parent and obtain permission.
Top tips on agreeing to child arrangements for the summer holidays:-
- Arrangements – Try to agree arrangements as early as possible so that plans can be finalised in advance of any trip abroad. Information to provide to the other parent can include flight details, hotel details, travel insurance, travel dates and times as well as an itinerary of what you will be doing whilst you are away on holiday. This can assist with reassuring the other parent should they have any concerns.
- Communicate – Although you may be worried that the discussions will be difficult, to co-parent effectively you should try to discuss directly with the other parent whether that is face to face, by email or through a parenting app. It is best to ensure that any adult discussions are not held within the presence of the children, to avoid them picking up on any tension between parents. Children can pick up on these concerns.
- Be flexible – the other parent will likely have plans in mind for the summer holidays so try to understand and appreciate those plans if you can. Often a joint calendar containing family commitments such as work and special occasions can assist when determining availability for holidays.
- Think of what the children/child wants – Think about what your child may want to do during the summer holidays – This can of course vary depending on the child’s age but the main priority is ensuring that the child is at the forefront of any arrangements.
- Seek advice – If you require it, seek advice if matters continue to be strained or unresolved. A family solicitor or a mediator may be able to help you negotiate the arrangements, if you give them enough notice. In the event an agreement cannot be reached then the last resort is an application to court to deal with the specific issue regarding the holiday.
If you are experiencing issues regarding your child arrangements over the holiday period and would like a chat to discuss this, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Family Team by emailing FamilyTeam@Jacksons-law.com.
