Start here

I’ve just separated.

You do not need to solve everything today. Stabilise the next few days, protect the children from adult conflict and create a simple written record.

Make the next 72 hours predictable.
Write down where the children will sleep, how school and ordinary care will work, and how urgent information will be shared. Keep it temporary and practical.
Move important communication into writing.
Use short, factual messages. Deal with one issue at a time. Do not argue the entire history of the relationship.
Create one safe folder.
Save court papers, important messages, school information, medical information and financial documents in one place. Keep originals unchanged.
Check whether anything is urgent.
A court deadline, immediate safety concern, threatened removal of a child or loss of accommodation may require prompt professional help.

Keep in mind

Children should not carry messages between adults.
A temporary parenting arrangement is not the same as resolving property, money or long-term child arrangements.
Do not sign or agree to wording you do not understand.

Keep moving