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Hi,
I'm new to this site but I'm glad I found it, resource for us dads is thin on the ground.
I recently left my ex, (6 months ago). Things have been pretty rocky since, though to her credit she has never stopped me seeing my kids (2 girls, 2 and 4). I pay above the odds for maintenance and have them well over a third of the year.
I'm now in the process of trying to get hold of all details for the kids education and health. My eldest daughter has a partial hearing loss and both kids are currently experiencing some minor problems. I don't feel my ex is communicating enough with me eg I can't even get out of her what doctor she's registered the kids with.
My name is on the birth certificate and I have always gone above and beyond whenever I've needed to. In 6 months I have done all picking up and dropping off and taken both kids to nursery also which involves an hour and a half commute both ways.
What I need to know is can I force my ex to supply these details or can she continue to be obstructive and awkward.
look forward to hearing your responses,
Thanks.
Hi Rowlatt,
As you have PR for your children, you have the right to access information relating to your childrens health and education. However I'm not sure that rules surrounding education covers pre-school provision.
I'm not an expert on this, so if you require immediate advice call the Coram Children's Legal Centre (CCLC) for some free legal advice. They will be able to tell you your rights and how to go about obtaining the information you require. There's a link to the their website below!
FM '70
One comment I would make is that you mention your ex hasn't made contact difficult - if you've read through the forum, you will see that this is not always the case, so I would be careful about using means to force the issue (which in reality, means the courts) - is there any way you can, say arrange a meeting, or skype conversation once a month just to catch up on anything that concerns you both, and for her to let you know if there is anything you can do to help?
Thanks for your responses,
I say she hasn't made contact difficult - it's taken a lot of effort on my part to achieve contact as I have it now. I've had every allegation under the sun thrown at me and at times have started to doubt myself. The kids are ALL that matters in my situation but at times I've found myself stooping to her level and I'm just trying to get things in order for the future.
I'll try and avoid the court route at all costs so maybe a letter is the best option. As the kids get older I'm hoping they'll be able to make their own minds up and keep me in the loop.
Thanks again for your time,
Rich.
Speak with the CCLC about what rights come with Parental Responsibility and what information you can realistically expect from schools, GP's etc...
... once you have these facts you can go back to your ex and explain that you don't want to tread on her toes, but this is what you expect to be kept informed of and if she isn't prepared to do it, you'll go to the school and the GP directly.
The CCLC have a freephone number, just give them a call when you have time and they'll be able to advise you!
FM '70
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