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The Emotional Realities of Co-Parenting

Co-parenting with an ex-partner often involves far more than juggling schedules—it’s an emotional journey. Actress Helen Flanagan recently spoke openly about her struggles, admitting how draining it feels when her children leave and return, and how lonely solo parenting can be.

Her honesty reflects what so many parents go through: feelings of guilt, overwhelm, and the challenges of maintaining stability for their children while navigating the complexities of shared parenting.

As family law specialists, we see firsthand the difficulties faced by our clients as well as the emotional impact.

Co-parenting can result in emotional ups and downs. Parents often find themselves caught between relief when they get time alone and sadness when the children are away. Without a partner to share the emotional and practical responsibilities, the load can feel heavy and isolating when acting as a ‘solo parent’. Switching between two households can also unsettle both children and parents, creating stress during transitions like school runs or holidays.

At E J Coombs, we understand that every family’s circumstances are unique. We provide both practical guidance and compassionate support to help you navigate the challenges of co-parenting.

Here’s how we can help:

Advice on Child Arrangements
We provide clear, practical advice to help you understand your rights and responsibilities. Our team can guide you through creating arrangements that work for your family and prioritise your children’s wellbeing.

Referrals to Trusted Mediators
Sometimes a neutral voice can help parents move past disagreements. We work with experienced mediators we trust to facilitate constructive conversations.

Support with Parenting Plans
A well-thought-out parenting plan can bring stability and reduce conflict. We help you ratify plans that cover day-to-day care, holidays, and communication between parents.

Advice on Parenting Apps 
Technology can make co-parenting easier. We recommend reliable apps that help parents manage schedules, share updates, and keep communication focused on the children.

Guidance Through Court Proceedings
If agreements cannot be reached, we represent and support you through court proceedings—ensuring your case is presented with care and clarity.

For many parents, the hardest part of co-parenting is not knowing where to turn when things feel overwhelming. With professional advice, structured plans, and access to the right tools, the journey becomes more manageable.

Co-parenting is rarely simple. As Helen Flanagan’s story highlights, it can feel lonely, stressful, and emotionally draining. But with the right guidance and tools, it doesn’t have to feel impossible.

At E J Coombs, we offer more than legal advice—we provide compassionate, practical solutions to help families find stability. Whether it’s advice on child arrangements, court representation, or even simple guidance on parenting apps, we’re here to help.

If you’re facing the challenges of co-parenting, contact E J Coombs for a confidential consultation using the links below.