Divorce can be challenging for any couple when children are involved but even more so if you have a child with additional needs. Depending on their specific needs, you’ll need to take extra care when considering both practical and emotional support and plan ahead where possible to ensure your child feels secure.
It can feel overwhelming and there can be a lot to consider but there are ways to ensure the process is as smooth as possible for everyone.
Think about your child’s best interests
The main priority for you and your former partner should be your child. You’ll need to consider their emotional needs as well as any practical support they require to ensure they continue to receive this. If possible, come up with a parenting plan together and agree on the best living arrangements for them.
This might include being close to their school, any medical support and extended family. While it’s often inevitable that a child’s routine becomes affected, it’s a good idea to try and minimise disruption as much as possible in the case of children with special educational or physical needs.
If you’re struggling to come to an agreement together, you might want to get advice from professional family law solicitors to help reduce conflict and maintain the wellbeing of your child.
Prepare to compromise
While many children often do well at adapting to new situations, it can be more challenging for those with additional needs. It’s a good idea to prepare to change certain arrangements if things don’t go to plan.
For example, if your child doesn’t settle at the non-resident parents’ new home, it might make sense to provide shorter visits with no overnight stays until they get used to the surroundings.
This might be upsetting for you as parents, but it’s important to put their needs first as they adapt more to the situation.
Financial support
There might be additional costs to consider if your child needs extra help such as respite, carer support or home adaptations, for example. You or your former partner might need to contribute to these costs to ensure their ongoing needs can be fully met.
Planning ahead
As children get older and become more independent, there’s often less need for parents to work closely together. But when you have a child who needs extra support you might need to be prepared to co-parent for an extended amount of time.
This is especially true if your child will be dependent on you after the age of 18. You or your partner might also be required to pay more in child maintenance to cover things like necessary therapy or medical treatments.
Although there’s a lot to consider when separating, there’s no reason why the process can’t run smoothly, as long as you and your former partner put your child’s needs first and establish good communication.
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