March marked the national celebration of Neurodiversity Week, and Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025, will recognisese National Autism Awareness Day. These days are crucial to raise awareness, empower and educate. However, it is important to remember that neurodiversity extends beyond these designated dates. According to autism.org.uk, over 1 in 100 individuals are on the autism spectrum, with approximately 700,000 autistic adults and children living in the UK.
At Hedges, we understand the diverse needs of families, particularly during challenging times. Our Family Team specialises in child arrangement matters, understanding the profound impact that divorce or separation can have on children. This impact is unique to each child, influenced by factors such as age, personality, and the disruption to their established routines.
We are committed to providing sensitive and informed support to families navigating these transitions, acknowledging the importance of understanding and accommodating individual needs, including those within the neurodiverse community. Our team approaches each case with empathy and expertise, striving to reduce disruption and promote positive outcomes for all involved.
When parents of an autistic child separate, there may be additional factors to consider. Autistic children often benefit hugely from a clear routine, and may have increased anxiety around change, both of which can be a challenge when parents are separating.
If you would like any advice about children and separation, then do not hesitate to get in touch with our highly experienced family law team.
Here are some ways parents can help an autistic child cope when going through a separation:
- Every child is different, and you know them best. Think carefully about how the separation is going to change their everyday life and what’s likely to upset them the most. Then you can make a plan to limit the effect of these changes wherever possible.
- It is always essential to consider the potential harm suffered by children as a result of ongoing conflict between parents, but even more so with children who are on the autism spectrum. If possible, work together with your partner to reduce the level of conflict your child is exposed to.
- Ensure you have an idea of the ‘next steps’ before telling your child about the separation. They are likely to have particular worries and may have questions about what this means for their future, so being in a position to provide reassurance and clarity is crucial.
- As much as possible, keep their routine as normal as you can. If it’s possible for one parent to remain living in the family home, rather than it being sold, then this option should be considered.
- Reiterate to your child that you are both still their parents – your relationship might be ending, but you will still always be a family.
- Ensure that you have a clear plan for how much time your child is going to spend with each of you. Once the routine is in place, it should be followed wherever possible. Create visual calendars so that your child can easily see which home they are going to be at set times.
- You may want to create a similar bedroom in each of your homes for your child, so they feel comfortable and at home in both. If needed, double up on school uniform, favourite toys, books etc. so that your child always has the items that are important to them and their routine to hand.
We are here to help
We are dedicated to resolving parenting disputes as amicably as possible. Every solicitor in our family team are members of Resolution which means we have a duty to reduce conflict wherever possible, and put any children involved first.
We know that taking the first step may feel daunting, so we offer an initial one-off consultation where you can meet your lawyer to discuss your legal needs and take advice on your possible next steps. Absolute discretion is guaranteed.
To book a consultation or for any questions regarding our family law services please ring 01865 594265 or email us at hello@hedgeslaw.co.uk
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