Resolution, the national organisation of family lawyers,
have recently published the results of a survey of children whose parents had
separated. The 14-22 year olds were
asked how a parental break-up had directly affected them, with the following
results:
·
19% said that they didn’t get the exam results
they hoped for
·
24% said that they struggled to get homework,
assignments or essays completed
·
11% said they got into more trouble at school
·
12% confessed they skipped lessons
·
14% said they drank more alcohol, or began
drinking
·
28% indicated that they began to eat more or
less than previously
·
13% admitted to experimenting or thinking about
experimenting with drugs
·
32% said that one parent tried to turn them
against the other
·
27% said their parents tried to involve them in
the dispute
·
23% said they had found out on social media that
one of their parents had a new partner
·
19% said they completely lost touch with one or
more grandparents after divorce
It is clear from this survey that the effects of parental
separation on children cannot be underestimated. Parents must strive do everything possible to
resolve disagreements between themselves in constructive and amicable way,
without involving their children.
Whilst there is no way to avoid entirely there being any
impact of a relationship breakdown on children, their feelings must be
considered as a priority in order to minimise any on-going anxiety and emotional
issues. I am often told by clients that
their children are ‘resilient’ or that they will ‘bounce back’. This survey reports that that is often not
the case, and that long term harm can be caused.
There are ways to minimise the harm however. Here at Cripps we are committed to resolving
disputes in as constructive and non-confrontational way as possible. Court proceedings are very much a last
resort, and we can advise you on the other options for settlement available to
you.
Claire Tollefson is a solicitor in the family law team. You can telephone Claire direct on 01892
506191 or email Claire at claire.tollefson@cripps.co.uk