Separation and divorce

Families come in all shapes and sizes and lots of children grow up in families with separated or divorced parents.

Children and young people often have some difficult feelings about their parents separating because it can have a significant impact on them. This is healthy and normal.

They may feel shocked, upset, angry or worried when they find out their parents are separating. They may experience these feelings straight away, or after some time has passed. It can take time to adjust to their ‘new normal’.

What can I do to support?

Keeping up their usual routine and attending Scouts can support children and young people during this time. Some young people might want to talk to friends or to a trusted adult, and adult volunteers can play a key role in listening. Some children and young people may need extra support to prevent their feelings from affecting their mental health and might like to open up to someone they don’t know, such as a counsellor.

Adult volunteers should not become the main support for a young person who is struggling with their mental health and specialist support may need to be identified. The best form of support is often through the child or young person’s GP or through pastoral support at their school.

If you’re worried about a young person, always follow the Yellow Card Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults and report your concerns to the UK HQ Safeguarding Team.