Written question asked by Lord Harper (Conservative) on Monday, 23 July 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 July 2007. It was answered by Lord Brennan of Canton (Labour) on Thursday, 26 July 2007 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Parental Separation

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what plans his Department has for ensuring the provision of information and guidance for families where parents have separated.

Answer: In March 2006, we published the ‘Parenting Plan’. This easily accessible guide for separating parents helps them work out the best possible arrangements for their children, whether or not they then make court applications. CAFCASS distributes the plans, and it provides further information and support to those families involved in family court proceedings. From September 2007, the Legal Services Commission will be testing demand for giving advice over the telephone to people experiencing relationship breakdown.

Secondary information