When one parent deliberately damages or interferes with a child’s relationship with the other parent, it can lead to a serious issue known as parental alienation. This behaviour can have lasting emotional effects on the child and often becomes a major concern during divorce or separation cases. In the UK, the courts are becoming more aware of the harm this can cause and have procedures in place to protect the rights of both children and parents.
What is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation happens when a child is encouraged—directly or indirectly—to reject the other parent. This can be done through negative talk, blocking contact, or creating false impressions. The alienating parent may do this consciously or without realising the impact of their actions. The child, caught in the middle, may become emotionally withdrawn from the other parent or repeat things they’ve been told, even if they don’t understand them fully.
Family law professionals have raised concerns about parental alienation because it not only affects the parent-child bond but also goes against the principle of a child’s right to have a relationship with both parents, unless contact would place the child at risk.
The Role of Family Courts
The family court in England and Wales takes all allegations of emotional harm seriously, including cases involving parental alienation. The Children Act 1989 is the key legislation that guides decisions, always placing the child’s welfare first. The court can ask the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) to get involved. Cafcass officers assess the family situation and provide reports to help the court make a decision. They will usually include their findings in their report if they suspect parental alienation.
How a Child Arrangement Order Can Help
A child arrangement order is a legal tool that sets out where the child lives when they spend time with each parent and other important arrangements. If you believe that parental alienation is taking place, applying for a child arrangement order is often the first step to protect your contact with your child. The court can include enforcement measures and even vary the order if the alienating parent refuses to follow it.
What You Can Do
If you’re affected by parental alienation, it’s important to stay calm and document everything. Keep a written record of missed contact, texts, and anything else that could support your case. Courts take a dim view of false claims, so it is important to focus only on facts.
You may also want to consider legal advice. A solicitor with experience in family court matters can help you prepare a strong case. Legal aid may be available in some cases where there is evidence of abuse.
The court can also order therapeutic support or parenting programmes if needed. It can even change the child’s living arrangements in severe cases if it’s in their best interests.
Final Thoughts
No parent should feel cut off from their child without reason. UK courts are placing more attention on parental alienation, recognising it as a serious issue that can harm children emotionally. By using legal routes like a child arrangement order and seeking help through the family court, you can take steps to protect your relationship with your child and fight for their right to a balanced and loving upbringing.
