Separated Parents Information Programme (SPIP)

Family Matters provides the Separated Parents Information Programme (SPIP) in accessible locations in York, Scunthorpe and Grimsby.

A SPIP is a four-hour course which is provided free of charge when the court orders the parents’ attendance as part of a court case about children.

You will take part in a specially designed programme for separated parents and meet other parents who have experienced similar situations. The course will be managed by an experienced facilitator who will introduce the programme and the exercises. The programme will help you to see things differently and improve communication with the other parent so your child does not feel under pressure to fix things between you.

We can also offer the course for parents who are considering a court application and want to increase their knowledge and understanding about how to parent well following a separation. The course cost can be combined with the Mediation Information and Assessment meeting (MIAM). Call us to talk about arranging a direct access Separated Parents Information Programme

Why do I have to go?

A SPIP is ordered by the court, so it is a legal requirement that you attend.

Will my ex-partner be on the same course as me?

No, the other person in your case will attend a different course on a different day. So, you don’t have to worry – you will not be at the same meeting as your ex-partner. If you are particularly worried about this, please email Claire Mawson, the programme coordinator at admin@familymattersmediate.co.uk with your concerns and she will respond directly to you.

Why should I go?

Research undertaken by Cafcass, and our own feedback, indicates that people who attend a SPIP programme have increased levels of parental co-operation and the outcomes for their children are also improved.

What if I can’t attend the meeting I’ve been offered?

If you are unable to attend the date or location we have offered you. Please contact our office giving us at least 24hrs notice and we will organise another meeting.

What will I be doing?

There will be a presentation and range of exercises which can be done either as written exercises or as a group discussion. The programme looks at the journey you are on and caring for your children as separated parents.

You will watch a DVD made in conjunction with young people and be encouraged to think about your strengths as a parent and how to build on them. We will focus on communication and managing conflict, helping you to learn new skills.

Everything said within the meeting is confidential, and the focus is on your children’s needs as well as helping you to establish a constructive relationship with the other parent

Why should I come?

Parents who have come to the Separated Parents Information Programme all say they have learned things from attending.

What should I bring?

Your Unique Participant ID code and a positive attitude. The more you give, the more you’ll get from our service.

See what other parents have said about the course

“It may be scary before you go, but when you’re there it’s not. It’s about the children. When you attend, there’s so much information to take in. It really does help.” – A dad from York

“The organisation is such an amazing thing. It’s helped me so much.” – A mum from Grimsby

“It’s a non-judgemental environment, which made me feel at ease.”

“It has helped us become better parents to our child. I’ve gained a better understanding of what our child needs from us.”

“It’s made me see more clearly the impact both parents can have on a child.

Call us to arrange your Separated Parent Information Programme. We look forward to hearing from you.

Find out more about the Separated Parents Information Program and mediation with Family Matters here.