Children and co-parenting support

When can these services help?

Use them when you are making arrangements for the first time, when an arrangement stops working, or when talking to your ex has become difficult. Co-parenting apps keep calendars, messages and shared costs in one place, which helps if conversations tend to turn into arguments. In England, Cafcass becomes involved if a case about children goes to the family court.

What does child arrangements help cost?

Charity advice and Cafcass are free. You can agree child maintenance between yourselves at no cost, or use the Child Maintenance Service, which can work out an amount and collect it if needed. Check current fees on GOV.UK. Co-parenting apps usually charge a subscription.

How to choose the right support

Start with how your children are coping, then pick the help that fits. Gingerbread focuses on single-parent families, Both Parents Matter on helping parents stay involved, and Coram Family Lives offers parenting support. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own services, listed below. If you can't agree arrangements, a family mediator is usually the next step.

Guides that may help

Other kinds of help

This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Facts checked 20 October 2026.