Social Care: Families that split need more support

The study found only a third of separated families received professional advice, with four out of five of those receiving it from solicitors. Of the third who got advice, three-quarters believe they need more support to help their family cope with the breakdown.

According to the research more than half of parents who no longer live with their children but regularly care for them found their support needs were not catered for.

Karen Woodall, director of the centre, believes the results show the need for a whole family approach to support, offering equal help to mothers and fathers. She said: "Increasingly children continue to have contact with both parents. If this is handled well then the outcome for children improves significantly. Where there is ongoing conflict, children can be damaged. We want to see services that engage and support all parents in providing what children need in order for them to realise their full potential."

The centre has also published Putting Children First, a handbook aimed at people affected by family separation.

- www.separatedfamilies.org.uk.