Pilot scheme to help separating parents reach own agreements launched

The Chair of Resolution, Liz Edwards, has announced the launch of a new scheme, ‘Family Matters', which will provide help and guidance for separating parents who do not qualify for legal aid.

Dedicated advisors, to be known as ‘Family Matters Guides' will work with separating and separated parents in their local communities to advise them on ways they can reach constructive agreements together, focusing on the needs of children. Family Matters Guides will also help parents access other local services they may not previously have been aware of. Guides will combine specialist knowledge of family law with sensitive and tailored information and support for separating parents to help achieve lasting outcomes in the wake of family breakdown.

The pilot scheme will operate in Crewe, Newcastle upon Tyne and Oxford and is being funded with more than £650,000 from the Department for Work and Pensions as part of their Innovation Fund to support separated parents.