What is a support bubble?

Further to the Government’s updates on 10th June 2020, we have seen further lifting of the lockdown restrictions which are currently place in England with the introduction of the support bubble.

Support Bubbles

Whilst children with separated parents have always been able to move between homes during the pandemic, this new easing of measures will now enable single parent families (with children under 18) and single adult households to act as if they live in the same household, allowing them to move between households and create a ‘support bubble’.

This will be welcome news to many single parents who have not been able to call on family members for support during these difficult times.

Examples of what is now allowed under the new rules are:

• A single grandparent could now move into the house of one of their children;
• A single mother or father could move between their parent’s house or a friend’s house providing them with support including childcare.Individuals in these new ‘support bubbles’ will not have to social distance and can operate as if they are all from the same household on the condition that they stay within that bubble. This means that once a person is within a ‘bubble’ they are not allowed to form another bubble with other households.

I don’t want my children moving within a support bubble

If you and the mother/father of your children are separated, this news may raise concerns if your ex- partner intends to create a ‘support bubble’. You may be concerned about the increased risk posed to your child(ren) due to the lack of social distancing within the ‘bubble’.

Speaking to the other parent, relaying your concerns and being able to agree a way forward would be the best scenario if this is possible.

We do understand that communications with an ex-partner aren’t always easy. If this is the case for your situation then family mediation could be a good way forward for you. At mediation, our mediators would be there to facilitate and help move discussions along for the benefit of those involved, especially the children. As the mediation timetable is tailored to suit the parties, we would be able to set up a meeting and assist you in reaching an outcome a lot quicker than if a matter were to progress to court.

If you would like to speak to a member of the team regarding any family advice or mediation, you can contact us on 0113 3229222 or email enquiries@consilialegal.co.uk.

Disclaimer

• • Please note – this guidance is not intended to be taken as legal advice – for individual situations you will need to take specific legal advice.
  • The information in this guide is correct as of 16th June 2020.
  • All information provided should be read alongside the relevant Government Guidance athttps://www.gov.uk.