Divorce: The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)

Divorce in Singapore can be a challenging and emotional process, especially when children are involved. In Singapore, the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) aims to make this transition smoother for families. This article will guide you through what the CPP is, why it’s needed, and what to expect.

What is the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)?

The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP), previously known as the Mandatory Parenting Programme (MPP), is a crucial initiative designed to support divorcing parents with children under 21 years old. The purpose and components of the programme focuses on equipping parents with the knowledge and skills needed to support their children’s well-being during and after the divorce.

The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) comprises 2 components:

1. Online E-Learning Module

   Parents must first complete an online module that provides foundational knowledge and skills for effective co-parenting.

2. In-Person Consultation

   After completing the online module, parents attend an in-person consultation session. This session offers personalised guidance and support, addressing specific concerns and helping parents navigate co-parenting challenges.

Together, these components aim to prepare parents for the challenges of co-parenting, ensuring the best interests of their children are prioritised throughout the divorce process.

Who Needs to Participate in the CPP?

The CPP is mandatory for all divorcing parents with minor children (under 21 years old) in Singapore.

It must be attended before filing for divorce or during the divorce proceedings (depending on which party you are).

Starting from July 1, 2024, the CPP will become mandatory for all divorces in Singapore, regardless of whichever divorce route is taken (contested divorce or simplified uncontested divorce).

This means that both you and your spouse must attend the CPP to ensure that you are prepared to co-parent effectively post-divorce.

Objectives and Benefits of the Programme

The CPP aims to:

• Promote Effective Co-Parenting

  Help parents work together to create a stable and supportive environment for their children.

• Reduce Conflict

  Minimise disputes between parents, ensuring a smoother transition for the family.

• Support Children’s Well-Being

  Focus on the emotional and psychological needs of children, helping them adapt to the changes.

• Draft a Proposed Parenting Plan

  Assist parents in creating a proposed parenting plan for custody and visitation arrangements, ensuring a stable and supportive environment for their children.

The Mandatory Parenting Programme (MPP) Process

1. Online E-Learning

   Before attending the in-person session, parents must complete an online e-learning module conducted by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). The e-learning takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Where applicable, you may simply register by logging in with your SingPass to proceed.

2. In-Person Session

   All parents must attend a one-time, 2-hour consultation personally conducted by counsellors from approved agencies like Divorce Support Specialist Agencies (DSSAs) and Strengthening Families Programme@Family Service Centres (FAM@FSCs). These sessions are likely held at the premises of these agencies or family service centres. You may visit the MSF website here for a list of locations.

• Workshops and Counseling

  During the session, parents attend workshops and counselling focused on effective communication, conflict resolution, and child-focused parenting.

For more information and a step-by-step guide to completing this mandatory co-parenting programme, visit the MSF website here.

3. Documentation

Upon completing the CPP, you will receive a “Certificate of Completion”, enabling you to proceed with filing for divorce or continuing with the divorce proceedings. Parents must also document their co-parenting plan and submit it to the court for approval.

4. Court Procedures

The court reviews the co-parenting plan and ensures it meets the best interests of the children before finalising the divorce.

The CPP’s Role in Facilitating Divorce Proceedings

• Streamlined Process

The CPP helps streamline the divorce process by reducing conflicts and ensuring that both parents are on the same page.

• Court Approval

Both parties must file a parenting plan. A well-documented parenting plan, which clearly outlines arrangements for the children’s welfare, demonstrates thorough consideration and cooperation between parents. This increases the likelihood of court approval, making the divorce process smoother and faster.

• Alignment with the new law: Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA)

The new Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) law, effective July 1, 2024, complements the CPP’s goals. Under DMA, couples must submit required documents, including a co-parenting plan, to proceed with a no-fault divorce based on mutual agreement.

This aligns with the CPP’s focus on equipping parents with co-parenting skills and prioritising children’s well-being during the divorce process.

Counselling and Psychological Services

In addition to the CPP, the Family Justice Courts in Singapore offer counselling and psychological services to support families going through divorce. These services include:

• Counselling: Counsellors provide guidance and support to help families cope with the emotional challenges of divorce and related issues.
• Psychological Services: Psychologists conduct assessments and provide therapy to address psychological concerns, such as parenting capacity evaluations and child custody evaluations.
• Marriage Counselling: Professional marriage counselling is available for individuals who are unsure about their decision and need assistance in evaluating the impact of divorce on themselves and their children.

The Family Justice Courts (FJC) often provide these services free of charge.

The goal is to promote the well-being of children and families, facilitate effective communication, and help families navigate the legal and emotional complexities of divorce.

For more information on counselling and mediation services, you can read about it on the SG courts website here.

Conclusion

The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) is a vital resource for divorcing parents in Singapore, helping to ensure the well-being of children and reduce conflicts between parents. With the new updates in family law, effective from 1 July, 2024, including Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) and the mandatory CPP for simplified uncontested divorces, families can navigate the entire divorce process more smoothly and amicably.

If you’re considering a divorce and need expert guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Guardian Law. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of divorce and co-parenting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)?

The CPP is a government-mandated initiative designed to help divorcing parents with children under 21 years old understand the impact of divorce on their children and equip them with effective co-parenting skills .

Who needs to attend the CPP?

Parents with children below 21 years old who are going through a divorce and cannot agree on divorce matters and parental arrangements must attend the CPP .

What are the benefits of attending the CPP?

Attending the CPP can help parents with children under 21 years old understand the impact of divorce on their children and equip them with effective co-parenting skills. It can also help them understand the legal requirements and rights of their children, and how to navigate the divorce process.

Is the CPP mandatory for all divorcing parents?

Starting from July 1, 2024, the CPP will be mandatory for all simplified divorces in Singapore, regardless of whether the parents agree on the divorce terms .

How long is the CPP session?

The CPP is a one-time, 2-hour consultation session conducted by counsellors from approved agencies .

What does the CPP cover?

The CPP covers topics such as the financial challenges of divorce, the impact of divorce on children's living arrangements, child custody and access, and the importance of co-parenting and having a parenting plan .

Is there an online component to the CPP?

Yes, parents must complete a 1.5-hour online e-learning module before attending the in-person session .

Do both parents need to attend the CPP together?

No, each parent attends the CPP separately, and children are not required to participate in the sessions .

Are there any fees for attending the CPP?

No, the CPP is a government initiative, and there are no fees for attending it .

Can I be excused from attending the CPP?

Exemptions may be granted under certain circumstances, such as cases of domestic abuse or when one parent resides overseas. Consult with a family lawyer or the Family Justice Courts for eligibility and possible exemptions .

What happens after completing the CPP?

After completing the CPP, you will receive a "Certificate of Completion," which allows you to proceed with filing for divorce or continuing with divorce proceedings .

Does the Certificate of Completion expire?

For the purpose of divorce proceedings, the CPP must be completed no less than 2 years before the commencement of the proceedings.

Does a Defendant need to attend the CPP?

Yes, a Defendant needs to attend the CPP. If the Defendant wishes to file a counterclaim, he or she must attend the CPP before filing a counterclaim. In all other cases, the Defendant must attend the CPP no later than 22 days after receiving the Writ of Divorce and no earlier than 2 years from the commencement of divorce proceedings.

What is the Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) law?

Effective from July 1, 2024, the DMA law allows couples to cite mutual agreement as the ground for divorce without assigning blame, provided they have made efforts to reconcile and consider arrangements for children and finances .

How does the DMA law relate to the CPP?

Under the DMA law, couples must submit required documents, including a co-parenting plan, which aligns with the CPP's focus on equipping parents with co-parenting skills and prioritising children's well-being .

Where can I attend the CPP?

The CPP sessions are conducted by counsellors from Divorce Support Specialist Agencies (DSSAs) and Strengthening Families Programme@Family Service Centres (FAM@FSCs) .

Can I attend the CPP if I am residing overseas?

Provisions may be available for online completion of the CPP. Contact the relevant authorities or Guardian Law for guidance on overseas completion options.

Can I attend the CPP even if it is not mandatory for me?

Yes, you may choose to participate in the CPP to gain insights and knowledge that can help effectively manage family dynamics and child-centric concerns during the divorce process.