Parents separating is one of the most emotionally challenging experiences a family can face. Amidst dealing with financial matters and living arrangements, often the most pressing concerns for parents is how to coparent in a way that is stable, respectful, and child-focused. The 2024 NACCC Parenting Plan, developed in collaboration with OurFamilyWizard (OFW), offers a practical and compassionate framework to assist parents in agreeing co-parenting arrangements.
What is the NACCC Parenting Plan?
The Parenting Plan is a comprehensive, interactive document designed to support separated parents in making clear, thoughtful arrangements for their children. It encourages cooperation by guiding parents through key areas such as living arrangements, education, health, communication, holidays, and financial responsibilities. There is a clear breakdown of important matters to consider in each of these areas minimising the possibility for grey areas. This is not a legally binding document, however it can be used by legal practitioners as the basis for a formal agreement.
Who is it for?
This plan is ideal for separated or separating parents attempting to make arrangements for their children. It is equally useful for those who are navigating these issues without legal intervention, or those who are working with professionals such as solicitors, and mediators. The plan is also compatible with the OFW app, allowing parents to manage their arrangements digitally and collaboratively via OFW.
Key Benefits of the Parenting Plan
- Child-Centred Focus
The plan keeps the child’s voice and needs central, prompting parents to consider their children’s preferences, emotional wellbeing, and developmental needs. - Encourages Constructive Communication
It promotes respectful dialogue and provides strategies for managing disagreements and emergencies. - Promotes Stability and Consistency
Clear expectations around routines, holidays, schooling, and healthcare to create stability for children. - Reduces Conflict
A written, mutually agreed plan reduces misunderstandings and provides certainty for all involved. - Supports Professional Involvement
The plan can be completed with the support of legal professionals and integrates seamlessly with OFW, which professionals can also be provided with access to.
Introducing OurFamilyWizard: A Digital Companion to the Parenting Plan
OFW is a court-recommended parenting app designed for separated parents. It offers a variety of tools that align with the NACCC Parenting Plan, making it easier to implement and manage co-parenting arrangements.
Key features include:
- Shared Calendar: Coordinates parenting schedules, holidays, and events with real-time updates including time-stamped changes.
- Secure Messaging: All messages cannot be edited and are saved securely, providing a record of all communication via the app.
- ToneMeter™: A unique tool that helps parents maintain respectful in their messages by flagging inappropriate or confrontational language before messages are sent.
- Expense Log: Track shared expenses, attach receipts, and manage reimbursements via the OFWpay™ function.
- Info Bank: Store and share essential information such as medical records, school details, and emergency contacts.
- Journal & Check-ins: Document parenting time exchanges and share important moments or observations.
For practitioners, OFW offers professional access, allowing solicitors, mediators, and court advisors to access the app and support their clients more effectively.
Final Thoughts
The NACCC Parenting Plan and OFW app empower parents to co-parent amicably. They are invaluable resources for families seeking to co-parent without conflict and prioritise the best interests of their children. If you’re considering a parenting plan or would like legal support in creating one, our family law team is here to help.
How FJG Can Help
Tom Joyce is a Solicitor in our Family Law Team, specialising in children disputes, divorce, and financial matters arising upon divorce.
Our family law team offers clear advice and strong support throughout this process. We’ll assess your situation, prepare your application, and represent you in Court with care and professionalism. For further advice on any aspect of family law, please contact one of our team in our Colchester, Clacton or Chelmsford offices on 0845 543 5700, or via our online enquiry form.