One in three divorced and separated parents say summer holiday rows negatively affect their children

Over the next couple of months, many families will be jet-setting for their much-anticipated summer holidays. However, the summer break can bring logistical challenges for divorced or separated parents when coordinating holiday arrangements, causing stress, conflict and disruption for children.

In new research by Slater and Gordon, more than a quarter (27%) of separated parents report difficulties when making family holiday plans, with over half saying the process causes them stress or anxiety (55%), and a similar share (50%) saying such tensions worsen into conflict.

Amid parental tensions, children are often caught in the middle. One in three (34%) parents believe holiday disputes have a negative effect on their children.

When exploring the reasons behind these disputes, more than a third (36%) of parent's report disagreements over the type of holiday being proposed, while a similar proportion (34%) struggle to agree on travel dates.

Underlying issues also appear to be a driver of disputes, with 57% of parents saying challenges are due to ongoing tension with their former partner. More than one in three (36%) reported disagreements over the type of holiday being proposed, and a third (34%) also reported struggling to agree on dates.

When parents cannot reach an agreement, family plans can break down altogether, with a quarter saying their proposed holiday plans did not end up going ahead. This can leave children feeling disappointed, their expectations mismanaged and facing uncertainty. Senior associate solicitor, Andrew Ormrod, at Slater and Gordon said: “As highlighted by the survey, not all holiday arrangements are straightforward for separated or divorced families. They may face multiple obstacles on a yearly basis, creating conflict, stress and uncertainty for everyone involved.

“From a legal perspective, the needs of the children are the foremost priority in these situations. Their happiness and wellbeing should be central to any decision, including holiday arrangements.

“Many disputes occur when plans are made at the last minute, expectations are unclear, or costs have not been discussed in advance. Early communication can help parents agree arrangements, manage expectations and reduce the likelihood of conflict.

“Where disagreements continue, seeking advice from a family solicitor can help parents explore formal arrangements that provide clarity and certainty for both parents and children.”