Grandparents Rights and Contact With Grandchildren

Can grandparents apply for contact?

Grandparents do not automatically have the same legal position as parents, but they may be able to seek permission to apply for a child arrangements order in appropriate circumstances.

These matters often arise where family relationships have broken down after divorce, separation, bereavement or conflict between parents.

Common situations

• A parent stops contact with grandparents after separation.
• Grandparents previously played a significant caring role.
• There are concerns about a child losing contact with wider family.
• There has been bereavement or family conflict.
• Parents disagree about grandparent involvement.
• There are safeguarding concerns or allegations.

Information that may be useful

• History of the grandparent-child relationship.
• Previous contact arrangements.
• Messages or communication records.
• Details of childcare or support previously provided.
• Information about the child’s current living arrangements.
• Any previous court orders or mediation attempts.

What matters in these cases?

The child’s welfare is usually central. A legal practitioner may need to understand the relationship history, the child’s needs, the reasons contact stopped and whether contact would be safe and beneficial.

Oakens helps organise the initial facts so the matter can be reviewed efficiently before referral.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do grandparents have automatic rights?

Grandparents do not usually have automatic contact rights, but they may be able to seek court involvement in suitable circumstances.

Can mediation help?

Mediation may help some families resolve contact disputes without court proceedings.

What if a parent refuses all contact?

Where informal steps fail, a legal practitioner can assess whether a court route may be appropriate.