Do I need permission to take my child on holiday in the UK?

Are you wanting to take your child on holiday in UK and are worried that you may not be able to go?  Maybe you are worried that your child’s parent is taking them on holiday and your concerned that your child may miss out on time with you.

Whilst technically there is no legal requirement to obtain the permission of the other parent for holidays in England and Wales , save for if there is a Court Order which prohibits you from taking your child on holiday, we would always encourage parents to liaise with each other before booking holidays and before travelling so that you all know where the child will be and to help prevent any conflict.  Family mediation can also be helpful in resolving issues such as these.

Difficulties can arise if a holiday cuts across the time that the child would ordinarily spend with the other parent or if it is felt that decisions are being made unilaterally.   It is always better as far as possible for parents to try to come to an amicable agreement regarding holidays in the UK. Think about whether there is an option to swap the current arrangements or for additional time to be arranged before or after a holiday.

Try and put yourself in the other parents’ position, how would you feel about the holiday?  Remember that your children is likely to be excited about going away with their parent and will look to you both to ensure that they are able to enjoy themselves without worrying about their other parent.  Therefore, it would be prudent to notify the other parent of your intention to take the child on holiday in the UK and explain where you are going and for how long, therefore avoiding any misunderstanding.

Stone King LLP appreciate that it can often be difficult to make decisions about child arrangements and holidays, we are here to help. We have a team of experienced mediators and family lawyers. Please call 01225 337 599 if you require any assistance or click here to find out more about mediation.