What is Reasonable Child Contact?

When separated parents think about custody and parenting arrangements, understanding reasonable child contact is essential.

This concept ensures that children keep a strong connection with both parents after separation or divorce.

In this article, we will examine the legal definitions, common arrangements, and significant implications for families facing these situations.

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What is the Legal Definition of 'Reasonable'?

In the context of child contact, "reasonable" does not have a strict legal definition. It is a subjective term and varies from family to family.

Instead, it is often understood through the Children Act 1989.

This critical legislation outlines the framework for child welfare in the UK, emphasising that a child's best interests are the primary focus.

The Act establishes that parents have "parental responsibility," which includes promoting contact with both parents unless there are strong reasons to prevent it.

Reasonable contact can take many forms, such as:

• Equal parenting: Children tend to fare best when they have equal opportunity to spend time with both of their parents however this is not always possible due to proximity and work patterns.

• Regular weekend visits: These allow the child to bond with the non-residential parent without disruptions.

• Flexible weekday engagements: Parents may agree on evening visits around the child's school schedule.

  
  

Studies have shown that children who maintain contact with both parents generally experience better emotional stability.

For instance, a survey by the Office for National Statistics in 2020 revealed that 70% of children felt happier and more secure when they had regular contact with both parents following a separation.

What is Contact?

In family law, "contact" refers to the time a child spends with the parent not living with them.

It's now referred to as "spends time with" however a lot of judges and other legal professionals still use the term "contact".

Contact can include:

• Direct Contact: This is face-to-face interaction. It could occur at the other parent's home, a local park, or a neutral place like a contact centre. For example, a typical arrangement might involve the parent having the child every other weekend for quality time spent together.

• Indirect Contact: This includes phone calls, video chats, or sending cards and gifts. Even a simple weekly phone call can help maintain a connection. Recent research indicates that consistent indirect contact can reduce children's feelings of isolation, even when direct contact is limited.

  
  

Such arrangements are crucial as they influence a child's emotional health and sense of belonging.

What is Typical Contact?

Typical contact arrangements can differ significantly based on family situations, the child's age, and the parents' relationship. Common setups may include:

• Weekend Visits: Often, non-residential parents have their child every other weekend. This setup provides consistency.

• After-School Handoffs: Parents may agree on weekday visits after school, allowing for spending nights at both parents houses or even just a few hours of interaction and support with homework or shared activities.

  
  

Special arrangements for holidays and significant events can also be made.

For instance, many parents alternate school holidays to give both sides time with the child.

It is essential that these schedules consider the child's emotional needs and social life, as research indicates that children with stable contact arrangements are 80% more likely to adapt well post-separation.

Is 'Reasonable Contact' in the Best Interests of Your Children?

Deciding if "reasonable contact" benefits your child involves several considerations, including the child's relationship with each parent and their overall emotional state.

Generally, maintaining contact helps foster stability and parental bonds, which are key to a child's healthy development.

For example, a study from the University of Bristol in 2021 found that children who had regular contact with both parents were 60% less likely to experience anxiety.

However, if there is evidence of harm, either emotional or physical, then stricter arrangements may be necessary to protect the child's welfare.

It's important to note that while courts usually encourage contact, they will prioritise the child's safety in all circumstances.

How Do You Work Out What is in the Best Interests of Your Children?

Determining the best arrangement for your child can be challenging but following these practical steps may help:

1. Communicate with Your Ex-Partner: Clear conversations often help both parents understand each other's views, which is vital for forming effective child contact arrangements.

   
   

2. Involve Your Children: Depending on their age, children can express their preferences for contact. Their opinions matter significantly, as feeling heard can greatly enhance a child's security and happiness.

   
   

3. Consider Professional Mediation: Family mediators can facilitate discussions to help parents reach mutually agreeable arrangements that focus on the children's best interests.

   
   

4. Seek Guidance: Consulting with PAPA can clarify your options and ensure proposed arrangements comply with legal standards. Families that use PAPA are often more likely to achieve successful outcomes in custody arrangements. Book a call with PAPA here.

   
   

5. Regularly Review Changes: Life evolves, and so should contact arrangements. Regular check-ins help adapt to a child's changing needs over time.

   
   

Understanding reasonable child contact isn’t just a legal issue; it requires a commitment to prioritising the emotional and developmental needs of children involved.

Moving Forward

Reasonable child contact is essential for child welfare during and after separation or divorce.

Parents must work together to create arrangements that put their children first.

Although these situations can be complex, various resources and legal structures can help parents create effective contact schedules.

By focusing on the child's well-being, parents can make decisions that nurture positive relationships and emotional health.

The journey to establish reasonable child contact demands patience and dedication, but it is crucial for a child's happiness and stability.

Through open communication, mutual understanding, and awareness of legal rights, parents can significantly improve their child's quality of life during and after family changes.

In need of help or support?

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This will give you access to our community support forum as well as our Resource Centre, which includes downloadable guides and on-demand courses to help through the process of being alienated and regaining contact with your children.

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