On Monday 23rd March 2020, the Prime Minister escalated the response to Coronavirus by announcing a national lockdown with a ban on gatherings of more than two people.
People are expected to stay at home with the exception of going out to buy food or medication, exercise alone once a day, or to travel to work if absolutely necessary.
The coronavirus pandemic and current lock down will undoubtedly affect separated parents who want to ensure that they continue to have regular contact with their children.
The guidance has now been updated to confirm that children under 18 can be moved between the parent’s houses provided that no one in either household is showing symptoms of the virus.
For those parents who have a Child Arrangements Order in place it is important to note that the terms of such order continue to apply during the pandemic and therefore should be complied with unless doing so would put your child or others at risk.
Parents are expected to deal with this highly unprecedented situation sensibly and work together through these difficult times.
HEALTH must take priority and therefore it would not be in a child’s best interest to spend time with another parent who has developed symptoms of the virus.
Moreover, a child who is showing symptoms should not be expected to travel to another parent’s house and potentially spread the infection.
If matters cannot be agreed, a court application will become necessary to decide the best way forward. I
If you are unable to agree suitable child arrangements with your child’s other parent or if you are concerned about not seeing your child during this time, please contact our Family Law team immediately.