Your family’s wellbeing and safety is our top priority. Please call 0800 737 6583 and let us know how we can help.

In the meantime, here’s an update from the Principal Family Court Judge.

CHILDREN IN SHARED CARE – AND COVID-19

Generally, children in the same communities can continue to go between their homes, unless:

• the child is unwell. In this case the child should not travel between homes until they are well..
• someone in either home is unwell.
• someone involved (i.e. the child or people in the home they have been in or will go to) has been overseas in the last 14 days, OR has been in close contact with someone who is currently being tested for Covid-19 OR has been in close contact with someone who has the virus or is being tested.
• Parents and caregivers should discuss if shared custody arrangements would allow COVID-19 to potentially spread without them being aware and reach an agreement. This may mean the child may stay with one parent/caregiver for the initial 4 week period.
• Where children cannot move between homes, the Court would expect indirect contact – such as by phone or social media messaging – to be generous.
• Parents must put aside their conflict at this time and make decisions that are in the best interests of the child and their families and the wider community.

Judge Moran emphasises that children are precious and that, more than ever, this is a time to focus on their wellbeing, and in particular their safety. It is important that their loved ones are also safe and well, and that children know that, and are able to see their parents and caregivers lead by example.

Call us on 0800 737 6583 if you need to talk with someone at FWRS.