Child Contact Arrangements in Lockdown 2.0

So here we go again, another lockdown, this time anticipated to last just 4 weeks from 5^th November.  The question for us as family lawyers is whether this affects ongoing child contact arrangements for separated parents?

Just like before, different households are not allowed to meet indoors or out.  Two adults from different households can meet for the purposes of exercising outdoors, as can those in a support bubble.  It was made clear by the government when this lockdown was announced that children can move between households so that contact can continue.  It is a real positive that this was made so clear, previously it took some time for this to be clarified when the first lockdown was announced in March causing a lot of uncertainty.  Obviously, all arrangements must go ahead in a safe way.  The only time that the arrangements should be temporarily stopped is if there is a need for self-isolation.  We would not anticipate that this should result in much friction between parents.  If however arrangements during lockdown cannot be agreed we would encourage parents to work together to find a solution.  We acknowledge though that it might be difficult to bring about a quick resolution, particularly given the intended timescale for this second lockdown.

It is clear though that if direct contact cannot take place during lockdown then alternatives will need to be found such as regular telephone calls, texts, emails and video calls.

If issues perpetuate beyond lockdown then mediation (conducted remotely via video conference) might help to resolve differences and settle arrangements.  There will though unfortunately always be circumstances where issues cannot be agreed and as such court proceedings may become necessary.

If you need advice about child contact arrangements under the current rules or help reaching an agreement generally then contact our team of experts on family@chadlaw.co.uk or 0800 015 0340