Written by Ruth James
Based on my experience of working with separated parents, I have produced a new “Child first toolkit for reducing conflict between separated parents” and I rolling out updated practitioner training through the SSCP website. For details of dates and times, please go to: Updated training for practitioners
FREE courses for Somerset parents
Can you please share the details of either of these courses with your parents as appropriate.
I recently received this feedback from the Solicitor of a mum who had attended my latest 6 week online course for separated parents: ‘After speaking with mum, I noted the dramatic and apparent change in her, and her ability to deal with situations arising with father. Her general disposition had deeply changed when speaking about him…She admitted that she felt empowered and more confident, and was far more “in control” of her own responses.
I must openly admit, it was a real pleasure to see the far-reaching changes in her. Given the changes in my client in such a short period of time, I would hope to be able to recommend this course to others, in the hope that it would also have such a constructive and positive impact.’
“Reducing the impact of separation on everyone” course for separated parents
Whether you are newly separated or have been separated and co-parenting for a while, having a straightforward co-parenting relationship with your ex-partner can be fraught with difficulties. This is where we can help.
This new, evidence informed, 6-week online course is designed to give you practical tips for dealing with the day-to-day challenges of co-parenting, putting the wellbeing of your children at the centre.
Two free courses are running in the same week, led by Ruth James, Somerset’s Reducing Parental Conflict Coordinator. This scheduling allows separated parents to attend different sessions, making it easier for both parties to access support. The courses are designed to help parents reduce conflict and improve co-parenting relationships, with a strong focus on the well-being of children. Importantly, as long as one parent lives in Somerset, they are eligible to attend at no cost
To get more information about the course and book a place, please click on one of the links below:
| Course A 6:30 PM-8:30 PM 8, 15,22 October and 5, 12, 19 November | https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1372695773009?aff=oddtdtcreator |
| Course B 10AM – 12PM 9, 16, 23 October and 6, 13, 20 November | https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1396610312039?aff=oddtdtcreator |
A relationship survival guide for parents of babies and toddlers – 4 week online course
Becoming a parent is life-changing—and so is the impact it can have on your relationship. This practical, supportive course is designed to help new parents navigate the changes that come with welcoming a baby.
The research has found there is a 92% increase in couple conflict reported during the first year after having a baby and up to 67% of couples experience a decline in relationship satisfaction within the first three years. This is where we can help.
Babies and children can sense tension between parents and conflict can lead to emotional distress in babies, disrupted sleep and feeding and longer-term issues.
This highlights why it is important you both learn how to work together as a team when you are both exhausted emotionally and physically as you navigate parenting together.
This 4-week pilot online course for couples will be delivered by Ruth James, Reducing Parental Conflict Coordinator, Somerset Council who has had experience of working with parents to help them build a stronger relationship.
The each of the 4 online sessions will be 1½ hours and cover:
1. Preparing your relationship for a baby
2. Improving communication and managing conflict
3. Building a strong team as you work together to care for your baby
4. Moving forward together
The dates are:
- 15, 22 October 10 AM – 11:30 AM
- 5, 12 November 10 AM – 11:30 AM
To book your place, go to: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1499479767349?aff=oddtdtcreator
This free course is open to all parents, co-parents, and caregivers of children aged 0–3 living in Somerset. While it’s ideal for both parents to attend together, it’s absolutely fine if only one can make it.
For more information, please contact Ruth James, Reducing Parental Conflict Coordinator, Somerset Council: ruth.james@somerset.gov.uk
