Shared Parenting Rob Williams Fatherhood Institute

Poor outcomes for children whose parents separate are not inevitable

There are 5 key variables The child’s own characteristics Money and housing (fathers, mothers and children) The level of conflict between the separating and separated parents The quality of parenting by the RESIDENT parent And last but not least the quality of the relationship with the NON-RESIDENT parent.

Non-Resident Fatherhood A non-resident father-child relationship needs to substantial and normative if it is to be positive. ‘Standard’ contact does not achieve this

A strong relationship with a non-resident father is associated with Higher attainment at schools, Fewer behavioural problems, Less internalisation of problems, and Less risky behaviour during adolescence.

Low levels of contact linked to Depression in the child. Young adults suffer substantial anger and self-doubt related to a ‘missing’ father Young adults are less likely to experience a smooth pathway into their own romantic relationships.

Current arrangements are failing children One in three children of separated parents rarely or never see their non-resident father 11% of separated parents share the care of their children more or less equally In Sweden 33% of separations lead to children living with both parents

Three objectives for the Family Justice review Children who have the benefit of meaningful and positive relationships with both parents Mothers and fathers who can keep conflict between themselves to a minimum and either (at best) cooperate or else parent ‘in parallel’ without seeking to disrupt the relationship between their child and his or her other parent Mothers and fathers who are capable of looking after themselves providing well for their child, financially and emotionally.

Legislative change ? Yes Not a presumption of shared time Not an overiding presumption of anything legislation should acknowledge that children are most likely to benefit from the ‘substantial involvement’ of both parents in their lives

And for the adults separating? Support to Look after themselves Reduce conflict with their partner Achieve a positive relationship with children

And for the children? Support to Talk to someone outside of the family