Parental separation is more common today than in the past. When contact disputes are handled badly, children can suffer. We are developing measures to improve information and advice to parents, promote alternative ways to resolve disputes, such as in-court conciliation, and mediation. We also aim to give the courts more flexible powers in contact cases through the Children and Adoption Act 2006.

Part 1 of the 2006 Act gives the courts new powers for the courts to order 'contact activities' to assist people in resolving contact disputes and new enforcement powers in relation to breaches of contact orders. We will bring the remaining provisions in Part 1 into force on 8 December 2008.

We are responsible for family justice, while the Department for Children, Schools and Families has responsibility for children, young people and families. We are working jointly with them and a range of partners to deliver these policies.

Contact us: email or telephone 020 3334 3123

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• Page last updated on 18 November 2008