All You Need To Know About The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme Prior To Getting A Divorce In Singapore
Published by Bonsai Law
Divorce can be a painful process for all the parties involved, and this also includes your children. As such, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) offers divorce support programmes such as the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme to assist divorcing parents.
What Is The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme?
It is a free consultation session that aims to help divorcing couples to better understand the negative effects and impacts that the divorce can have on their children. Divorcing couples are encouraged to make decisions that prioritize the well being of their children.
What Are The Objectives Of The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme?
The objectives of the programme are to:
- Help parents understand the financial challenges of divorce.
- Show how divorce impacts living arrangements.
- Facilitate the understanding of child custody and access.
- Emphasize the importance of co-parenting and having a parenting plan.
Who Is The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme For?
Since 1 July 2024, attending the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme is mandatory for prescribed persons under the Women's Charter prior to filing for divorce in Singapore.
What Is The Programme Session Like?
The session will be facilitated by counsellors from the Divorce Support Specialist Agencies (DSSA), and typically lasts for two hours.
How Do I Apply For The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme?
You will be able to check your eligibility as well as apply for the programme via your Singpass. MSF will process the application and a DSSA counsellor will get in touch with you to schedule an appointment.
What If I Don't Want To Attend The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme?
Only persons who are excluded based on mental incapacity will not be required to attend this programme. You will have to produce valid documents like a medical certificate that supports the exclusion during the application.
If you are interested to attend this programme but are not eligible, you may contact the Ministry of Social and Family Development at dssaprogrammes@msf.gov.sg to apply.
