Child Arrangements Order (UK Guide):
What It Is, How to Apply (C100) & What Happens If It’s Broken
If you are struggling to agree arrangements for your child, a Child Arrangements Order can help bring structure, clarity and legal protection. It is designed to set out clear arrangements about where a child lives, who they spend time with, and how that contact should take place.
These situations often arise during separation or when communication between parents has broken down. It can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions are high and there is no clear agreement in place. A Child Arrangements Order is there to provide stability for the child and remove uncertainty for both parents.
This guide explains everything you need to know in plain English, including what a Child Arrangements Order is, who can apply using a C100, how the process works, how long it takes, and what steps can be taken if the order is not followed.
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What is a Child Arrangements Order?
A Child Arrangements Order is a legal order made under the Children Act 1989.
It decides:
• Who a child lives with
A parent may apply for a Child Arrangements Order to decide who the child lives with when there is disagreement about care arrangements.
This may be because:
- One parent believes they can provide a more stable home environment
- There are safeguarding concerns about the other parent
- There are issues around routine, schooling or consistency
The court may decide that a child lives with one parent, or with both parents under shared care arrangements. Shared care does not always mean an equal split of time, but it does mean both parents remain actively involved in the child’s life.
• Who a child spends time with
A Child Arrangements Order also sets out how and when a child spends time with the other parent.
This may include:
- Regular weekly contact such as weekends or midweek visits
- Overnight stays
- School holiday arrangements
- Indirect contact such as phone calls or video calls
The court will always make decisions based on what is in the child’s best interests.
What does a Child Arrangements Order do?
A Child Arrangements Order provides:
• A clear and consistent routine
It creates structure so the child knows where they will be and when. This reduces uncertainty and helps provide emotional stability.
• Legal clarity for both parents
It clearly sets out responsibilities and arrangements, reducing misunderstandings and ongoing disputes.
• Protection where there is conflict
If one parent is not following agreed arrangements or is preventing contact, the order can be enforced through the court.
Who can apply for a Child Arrangements Order?
A Child Arrangements Order can be applied for under the Children Act 1989, but the law divides applicants into two groups.
• People who can apply without permission
You can apply directly if you are:
- A parent of the child
- A person with parental responsibility
- A step-parent with parental responsibility
- A person named in an existing Child Arrangements Order (for example, someone the child lives with)
These applicants can apply using a C100 form.
• People who need permission from the court
You must first ask the court for permission if you are:
- A Grandparent
- Aunts, Uncles or other family members
- A family friend or someone the child has lived with informally
This is called applying for “leave to apply”.
The court will consider: Your relationship with the child, Your involvement in their life, Whether the application may disrupt the child’s stability and Whether the application is in the child’s best interests
If permission is granted, you can then proceed with a full application.
