Parents tell us how much they appreciate the support and guidance we provide, saying it has made a real difference in their lives
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Parents mention feeling more confident and less stressed about their family situations
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Parents value the practical advice and personalised care they receive
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Parents say our service has helped them create a happier, more harmonious home environment
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How We Help Parents...

Are You Feeling…
  • Overwhelmed?
  • Fragile and alone?
  • Anxious or scared?
  • Broken-hearted or sad?
  • Lost with nowhere to turn?
  • Unable to communicate with each other?
  • Angry, frustrated, or overwhelmed?
  • Uncertain about where to start?
  • Worried about your children's future?

You are not alone in these feelings. The Parenting Apart Programme is here to support and guide you through these challenging times.

Helping with Co-Parenting

When relationships evolve, parenting remains. We support parents to keep a positive co-parenting relationship, always thinking about what’s best for your child, making sure they feel safe and loved.

Building Trust and Understanding

We work with families based on trust and respect. By talking openly and honestly, we build strong connections with parents, offering support that fits each family’s unique situation.

Our Commitment to Your Family

We understand that parental conflict can overshadow a child’s needs. Our programme helps you refocus on your enduring role as a parent, even after separation. We offer support to ensure positive outcomes for the entire family, emphasising the emotional and physical well-being of your children. Children need to know they are loved and that their parents can make united decisions for them, regardless of living arrangements.

The Importance of Your Role as a Parent

We know how important parents are in their children’s lives. The way you care for and guide your child is key to their health, happiness, and how well they do in life. We are here to help you make a big positive impact. It is proven that when parents really understand their children’s needs, it helps them grow up healthier, get along better with others, and do well at school.

A Unique Approach to Family Support

The Parenting Apart Programme (PAP) is not just another mediation service. It is an evidence-based programme designed to help parents and carers who are struggling to communicate and get along.

No matter where you are in your journey of co-parenting, whether you are just starting out or facing ongoing challenges, the Parenting Apart Programme is here for you. Our goal is to make sure that both of you can work together effectively for the sake of your children’s happiness and well-being.

We focus on:

  • Building better relationships between parents for your children’s well-being.
  • Helping parents work together in a supportive way.

Introduction to Our Programme

PAP offers a new way to help families during tough times like separations and conflicts. We understand these changes can be hard, and we are here to offer a caring and complete solution. We focus on understanding the unique challenges your family is facing.

Our Approach to Supporting Families

  • Empathy and Expertise: We bring together professional knowledge with a warm, caring approach.
  • Research-Based Methods: Our methods are current, backed by research, and have been proven to work effectively.
  • Supportive Environment: We provide a safe and accepting space for parents to work on improving their co-parenting relationship.
  • At the core of The Parenting Apart Programme is our focus on the mental and emotional well-being of children. We make sure this is central to everything we do.


What Makes Our Programme Different:

  • A Blend of Therapy and Science: PAP uses a mix of Systemic Family Therapy solution, mentalisation and insights from Psychology and Neuroscience. This helps us address all aspects of child development and family relationships.
  • More Than Just Solving Conflicts: We aim for long-term emotional health and stronger relationships within the family, not just resolving current disputes.
  • Tailored Support: Our programme is flexible, offering 4, 8, or 12-week options, depending on what each family needs.
  • Empowering Parents: We focus on building parents’ decision-making and communication skills. This helps in creating a Parent Working Agreement, focusing on what’s best for the child.
  • Holistic Family Support: Our approach is different from usual mediation. It is more therapeutic, focusing on the whole family’s well-being.


PAP is designed to deal with complex family situations by helping parents or carers in effectively managing their roles and responsibilities within the family. This approach is crucial for rebuilding effective parenting roles, ensuring the family works together in the best interest of the children.

What Our Programme Includes

  • Support for Parents and Children: We offer individual and joint sessions for parents, as well as personal support for both parents and children.
  • Working Together for Your Child: Our main goal is to make sure your children are happy and well-cared for. We help you work together to create a plan that focuses on your child’s needs.
  • Help Beyond Just Talking: Our services include practical help, like assisting with handovers and spending time with children to understand their thoughts and feelings.

Our Services

The services offered by the Parenting Apart Programme include:

  • Individual and joint sessions for parents or carers,
  • Individual therapeutic support for parents or children,
  • Social Work Assessments,
  • Direct work with children to understand their wishes and feelings.
  • Support for Contact: Practical assistance in the community and handovers, to model positive interactions and involve children when suitable.
  • Observations of direct and indirect contact between parents and children.
  • Observations of Direct and indirect contact between parents and children


Recognition and Services of The Parenting Apart Programme (PAP)

Trusted by Authorities: PAP is a trusted programme used by Local Authorities. We also work with Cafcass to offer support in Child and Family Arrangements (ICFA), especially for families dealing with medium to high levels of conflict.

Helping in Tough Situations: Our programme is there for families when they need it most. We are  here to help when a child is part of a Child in Need Plan, under Child Protection, or in Childcare situations. This shows our strong commitment to looking after children and helping families through difficult times.

Court-Ordered Support: Sometimes, our programme is ordered through the Court to assist families. This is especially important during changes in the family. We create programmes that are tailored specifically to your family’s situation, understanding that every family’s needs are different.

Eligibility Criteria for Our Support

  • All Family Members Welcome: Whether you’re a birth parent, step-parent, guardian, foster carer, or adoptive parent.
  • Diverse Backgrounds: Our programme is open to families of all races, cultures, beliefs, and ages.
  • Children and Young People: We cater to families with children aged 0-16 years, including those with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
  • Various Family Structures: We understand families come in many forms. Whether you’re separated, divorced, or part of any other family setup, you’re eligible.
  • Communication Challenges: If you’re finding it hard to communicate about your child’s care, we’re here to help.


Safety is Our Priority:

  • Addressing Safeguarding Concerns: Before starting, we need to address any safeguarding concerns. This includes issues like domestic abuse, neglect, alcohol and drug misuse, and ongoing criminal investigations. Ensuring everyone’s safety is our top priority.

Programme Benefits

Saving Money and Reducing Stress

Cuts Down Court Costs: You could save around £20,000 on court and solicitor fees.

Saves Time: Helps finish legal processes faster, so parents aren’t separated from their children for long – usually, it’s up to 18 months in court.

Building Better Relationships

Better Talking: Helps parents communicate better for improved co-parenting.

Keeps Parent-Child Connection: Makes sure children keep a strong bond with both parents.

Stronger Bonds with Kids: Helps parents and children have better relationships, especially after big family changes.

Improving Well-being and Stability

Less Stress for Parents: Reduces worry and tension for a happier family life.

Good for Kids’ Health: Helps children feel emotionally and mentally better.

Stable Homes: Creates a more stable and secure environment for children in different homes.

Making Smarter Parenting Choices

Understanding What’s Best for Kids: Helps parents know what’s best for their children’s care and emotional needs.

Want to Learn More About the Benefits?

If you are interested in seeing how our programme helps families, [add link to social impact Report and evaluation) [click here to explore our research and evidence]. Find out how our methods are proven to work and the real difference they can make in your family’s life.

Ensuring Quality in Our Programme

Evidence-Based and Trusted

  • Proven Methods: We rely on solid research and continuously verify the effectiveness of our methods to ensure they benefit both parents and children.
  • Trust and Professionalism: Count on us for professional, ethical conduct. We’re committed to expertise, sound financial management, and the protection of your privacy.
  • Parent-Recommended: Hear from other parents who have seen positive changes thanks to our programme.
  • Responsive and Understanding: We’re here to listen and respond to your needs with a caring, connected approach.


Read more about our approach and commitment, and our quality mark on the Family Lives  https://www.familylives.org.uk/about/our-services/canparent  (Add link to the family lives website to show the quality mark and the can parent logo)

NACCC Registration

The Parenting Apart Programme proudly holds registration with the National Association of Child Contact Centres (NACCC). This reflects our dedication to the highest quality standards in family support services.

What NACCC Registration Means:

  • Upholding the highest service standards.
  • Adhering to best practices in family support and child contact.
  • Providing a safe, professional, and welcoming environment for families.


Click here to see more – https://naccc.org.uk/centres/the-parenting-apart-programme-cic/

Access helpful resources for parents

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Feedback

I found the Parenting Apart Programme to be a fantastic vehicle for helping support us. In a situation where perspectives differed on what was best for our child, it took a very child focused approach. Kam is an excellent, experienced practitioner who, guided by the programmes expert research, was able to show how more independent time with me would be beneficial to our child. Without this support, I would not have had the time with my child early on in the separation.
Father
"This programme's child-focused approach should be mandatory for family breakdowns. It has been essential for moving forward positively."
Mother
"The emotional discussions were tough, but the team's guidance has made me a much better parent."
Mother
"The support provided was professional and incredibly supportive during difficult times, truly a credit to the industry."
Mother
"The programme offered light and understanding during the separation, something the legal system failed to do."
Mother
“I wish we would have had this help offered to us earlier on during the Family Court proceedings as I think it would have been of great help much earlier in the process.”
Mother
"The programme taught me to communicate better with my ex for our son's well-being. Now, we can discuss our son's future constructively."
Father
"Thanks to the programme, I now share care with my ex-partner, ensuring our children's happiness."
Father
"Initially sceptical, the programme has allowed us to co-parent better than ever, making our children happy about their future."
Father
"The guidance helped us establish a solid parenting plan, improving our relationship for our children's sake."
Father
"The programme was a lifeline during a stressful time, helping prioritise our children's needs and save on potential legal costs."
Father
Catherine Barker from Family Hubs Network praises The Parenting Apart Programme for its innovative and assertive approach to improving children's well-being and co-parenting relationships. "Kam Kaur, Claire Field and their colleagues at the Parenting Apart Programme, do not pull their punches. They work tirelessly and innovatively keeping children’s wellbeing and future in the spotlight. Despite separated parents’ initial hesitation, they persevere in bringing parents together, helping them understand the impact ongoing parental conflict may have on their children and the need to develop a healthy co-parenting relationship, if they want to parent well the children they love”
Family Hubs Network - Catherine Barker, Head of Development
I have been greatly impressed with the commitment and dedication that those who have developed this programme. It is based on the newest evidence with regard to supporting separated and separating parents with a recognition of the role that neuroscience plays in how we react to life events.
Department for Work and Pensions - Patrick Myers, Senior Ambassador
Tony McDaid (CEO) from No5 Barristers’ Chambers “We consider it a social responsibility for us to support a scheme that can have such far-reaching effects on children and family life. I encourage colleagues to refer to the Parenting Apart Programme and look forward to seeing positive impacts for the families we refer.”
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Kristian Brown from No. 5 Chambers - The Parenting Apart Programme is, quite simply, a miracle-worker. They provide a unique and inexpensive way in which parents can learn to communicate better for the benefit of their children. In three years of seeing her involvement in cases, I have seen them transform families and parents in ways that no other course, training, mediation or method can. They are entirely child-focussed.
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Kevin Harris-James, Partner at Harrison Clark Rickerbys - The programme provides separating parents with the impartial and objective assistance they so often desperately need to help mend the broken family dynamic as far as the effective co-parenting of the children is concerned. 10 out of 10.
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Mark Hands, Solicitor at Irwin Mitchell LLP - The Parenting Apart Programme really is unique. There simply is no other programme out there which provides the kind of one to one support which parents often need to overcome the issues at the heart of a dispute.
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Vivienne Middleton, Lodders Family Law Solicitor - The Parenting Apart Programme certainly has the ability to identify and address the barriers (such as lack of trust, historical issues, power struggles etc.) which can cloud some parents judgment, preventing them from addressing their situation from the perspective of the children involved and enable them to communicate better.
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Social Worker: "I've seen first-hand how The Parenting Apart Programme transforms families for the better. It's remarkable to witness the positive change."
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Head Teacher : "As a professional, I recommend this invaluable resource to any parent facing challenges. The support and guidance offered are unparalleled."
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Social Worker : "This programme bridges gaps and heals — it's a crucial step towards positive change. I've seen its impact on families struggling to communicate and connect."
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Family Law Solicitor: "Families leave stronger and more united, all thanks to the support they receive here. It's more than a programme; it's a pathway to healing."
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Health Professional : "Trust in a programme that places your child's well-being at the heart of every decision. As a medical professional, I see the benefits of such a focused approach."
Legal and Barrister Testimonials
Family Court Advisor feedback highlighting the programme's role in improving their parenting through emotional discussions and insights into the impact of their actions on their children. They urge early intervention to prevent crises and appreciate the programme's ability to foster manageable co-parenting relationships.
Family Court Advisor – Cafcass.
"Reaching out to The Parenting Apart Programme was the best decision for our family's future."
Family Court Advisor Feedback
"Don't wait for things to get better on their own — this programme can turn things around."
Family Court Advisor Feedback
"Finding support was my first step towards a happier, healthier family life."
Family Court Advisor Feedback
"This programme gave us the tools to build a stronger, more loving future for our children."
Family Court Advisor Feedback
"It's not just help; it's a new beginning for your family."
Family Court Advisor Feedback

Awards and Recognition

  • 2021: Nominated for an Innovative Project by the Centre for Justice Innovations
  • 2021: Winner of The Family Justice Award by CYPNow
  • Finalist for the William Sutton Award
  • Winner of the Woman Who Achieves Award
  • 2022: Finalist in Family Support and Workforce Development by CYPNow
  • 2022: Finalist for the Community Interaction and Innovative Project at the Family Law Awards

These awards highlight our innovative approach, our contribution to family justice, and our work in supporting community projects.

Apart from these awards, we have also been actively involved in significant reviews and initiatives related to family support. This includes contribution to research and panel discussions with the Children’s Commissioner, the Early Intervention Foundation, and the Nuffield Justice Observatory. We are also part of The All-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood and The Family Solutions Group led by Sir Andrew McFarlane.

Take the Next Step: Schedule Your Free Consultation

Free Consultation: Personalised Support Just for You

Before making a referral, we highly recommend a free consultation. This is a chance for us to get to know you and your family better. During this consultation, we will:

  • Listen to Your Story: We want to understand your family’s unique situation and challenges.
  • Assess Your Needs: We will figure out what kind of support and intervention will work best for you.
  • Explain Our Programme: We will show you how our services can be tailored to your family’s needs.
  • Answer Your Questions: We are here to address any concerns or questions you have.


This consultation is completely free and there is no obligation. It is our commitment to making sure every family gets the right support.

Ready to Talk?

Click here to set up your free consultation. We are here to listen and help.
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Making a Referral

Both parents and professionals can refer to our programme. To start, just fill out our referral form on our website. Or, if you want to talk or have questions, you can contact us directly at 01562 700 447 or email enquiries@parentingapartprogramme.co.uk. Our team is ready to guide you through accessing our support and services.

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