Who it's for
- Separated or separating parents who can agree arrangements between them
- Parents working with a mediator who want a written plan
- Where there are safety concerns or no agreement, take advice or apply to the Family Court
What's included
- Part A — the child and parties
- Part B — where the child lives
- Part C — time with each parent: school week, weekends, handovers and holidays
- Part D — holidays abroad and travel, with a child abduction warning
- Part E — education and healthcare
- Part F — communication
- Part G — financial matters (not child maintenance)
- Part H — resolving disputes
- Part I — review and variation; Part J — signatures
Please note: this is a private agreement, not a Child Arrangements Order. If a parent does not follow it, the other parent would need to apply to the Family Court.
Key points covered
- Not legally binding like a court order, but shows what you agreed
- Taking a child out of England and Wales without the other parent's consent or a court order can be a criminal offence
- Child maintenance is dealt with separately (Child Maintenance Service or a private arrangement)
- Dispute steps: discussion, mediation, legal advice, then court as a last resort
- Review date suggested 6 months after signing
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Read the guide
Related documents
Separation Agreement£19.99 · See what's included →Divorce Financial Remedy Pack£19.99 · See what's included →Cohabitation Agreement£16.99 · See what's included →
Questions
Is a parenting plan legally binding?
No. It is a private agreement. Only a court order is enforceable by the court, but a signed plan is good evidence of what you agreed.
Can we take the child on holiday abroad?
Part D records the notice, consent and maximum length you agree. Taking a child abroad without consent or a court order can be an offence.
Does it cover child maintenance?
No. Maintenance is calculated by the Child Maintenance Service or agreed separately.
Can we change it later?
Yes. Part I sets out how to review and vary it by written agreement.
Child Arrangements Agreement
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