Parenting assessment

[Mossie20]

Hi, last week my husband has said he wants a divorce and is going to sell the house which I am not on the deed or mortgage, I have spoken to citizens advice I need to register my home rights so he can't force me to leave.
We were about to have a parenting assessment, which I think has caused this reaction, despite the things he says. It felt like the most positive situation for a while than with previous social workers, they weren't finding excuses and stupid reasons to delay or trying to say any therapy wasn't good enough, they saw the letters and were fine with them, we've never been required to do any parenting course, well I haven't I think it might have been mentioned at the start for my husband due to lack of experience.
They asked whether the assessment would be joint but if I inform them of the situation, will the assess me alone? given that I don't know what's going to happen home wise. Obviously parents split and things aren't always amicable but Social services don't get involved.
Also if they were willing to assess still and it was successful, what would happen regarding my husband if he hasn't been assessed?

[Suzie, FRG Adviser]

Dear Mossie

Thank you for your post and welcome to the discussion board. My name is Suzie and I will be replying to you today. I am sorry to hear of your situation, it must be a stressful time for you.

You and your husband are in the process of separating and you have sought advice on how best to protect your rights in respect of your property, from Citizen’s Advice. You are about to start a parenting assessment but do not say in what capacity. For example, whether care proceedings are underway or whether the assessment is linked to private law proceedings therefore I will provide some general information below.

Child’s services focus will be on the children and what is in their best interest. If it has been decided that a parenting assessment needs to be carried out that it will either be joint, with both parents being assessed together (not feasible given your situation) or separately. A parenting assessment looks at a parent's ability and capacity to provide good enough care for their child. This will involve assessing the parent's history, views and approaches towards parenting and their understanding of their child's needs and relationship to seeking help.

There is no definitive format for a parenting assessment but most will be structured around the common assessment framework and there may be particular focus on particular areas dependant on specific concerns. It would be a good idea to ask your local authority for a breakdown of what they will be covering and the social worker should explain to you how each session will be structured and what it will focus on. You should be given the opportunity to ask any questions at this time.

I hope you find this information helpful. There are many ways to contact Family Rights Group if you seek further advice in the future :

• A free telephone advice line open Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 3pm (excluding Bank Holidays) on 0808 801 0366
• Easy-to-follow online information. Features include an A-Z, FAQs, films, ‘top tips’ and legal advice sheets;
• Online forums where families can receive advice, discuss issues, and find support;
• A webchat service where you can message an adviser online, who will help you find information and advice to support you.

Best wishes, Suzie