Putting Families First logoPutting Families First

Policy

Ten commitments councils can make for better outcomes for children.

Every child deserves the opportunity to have meaningful relationships with both parents where it is safe and in their best interests. None of these commitments require new legislation, only will and leadership.

  1. 01

    Meaningful engagement of both parents

    Ensure both parents are routinely engaged in assessments, meetings and decision-making processes where safe and appropriate.

  2. 02

    Professional training on family breakdown

    Introduce regular training for practitioners on high-conflict separation, family breakdown, child welfare during separation and the impact of alienating behaviours.

  3. 03

    Early intervention and family support

    Expand access to Early Help, mediation, co-parenting programmes and family support services that prevent conflict escalating into crisis.

  4. 04

    Whole-family approach in education

    Work with schools to ensure both parents can access information, engage in their child's education and receive appropriate support during family breakdown.

  5. 05

    Strengthening family networks

    Promote Family Group Conferences and greater involvement of grandparents and wider family members in supporting children through family change.

  6. 06

    Recognition of alienating behaviours

    Develop guidance and training to help professionals recognise, assess and respond to behaviours that may undermine a child's relationship with a parent without good reason.

  7. 07

    Data transparency and public accountability

    Improve the collection, publication and reporting of data relating to family breakdown, family support services, parental engagement and child outcomes.

  8. 08

    Family impact assessments

    Introduce a Family Impact Assessment framework to ensure council policies consider their effect on children, parents and wider family relationships.

  9. 09

    Family relationships champion

    Appoint a dedicated councillor or officer to champion family relationships, parental engagement and children's access to both parents.

  10. 10

    Putting Families First charter

    Adopt a local Putting Families First Charter committing the authority to protecting children's relationships with both parents where safe.

Take the charter to your council

Email your local councillors and ask them to adopt the Putting Families First Charter. Tell us if they respond, we track who is willing to act.

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