Separation and divorce counselling
Service description
The district social service offers counselling in partnership, separation and divorce issues in accordance with § 17 and in the exercise of parental care and contact in accordance with § 18 SGB VIII.
In the event of separation or divorce, the aim is to find solutions for the joint children concerned and for parents to take responsibility for their own parental responsibilities.
The aim is to work together to resolve the conflict for the benefit of the children concerned and to find workable agreements (e.g. where will the child's centre of life be, how can contact with the other parent be arranged, how can holiday times be agreed, etc.). Joint arrangements and agreements can be made, with the district social services providing support and mediation.
The concerns and wishes of the children and young people concerned are taken into account as part of appropriate participation in finding a solution.
Depending on the circumstances, referrals can be made to professional counselling and support services (e.g. marriage and life counselling or parenting advice centres), parenting courses or other suitable support services.
If it is not possible to reach an agreement and counselling assistance is not effective, a court decision may have to be obtained from the competent family court to clarify the situation of the children and young people concerned.
The result of the counselling can also be the basis for the family court proceedings (cf. involvement of the youth welfare office in family court proceedings in accordance with Section 50 SGB VIII).