Family & Relationships
Support and advice for family and relationship challenges. Free, confidential guidance to help you navigate complex family matters and make informed decisions.
Service overview
Family and relationship issues can be complex and emotionally challenging. Whether you’re dealing with separation, child arrangements, or bereavement, it’s not always clear where to start or what your rights are.
Our Family & Relationships Service provides free, impartial advice to help you understand your options and make informed decisions during difficult times.
You can also find general guidance on family matters via the national Citizens Advice website.
Who this service is for
This service is for individuals, couples, parents, and carers across North Yorkshire who need support with family or relationship matters.
Key issues covered by this service
- Separation and divorce
- Child arrangements and parental responsibility
- Child maintenance
- Domestic abuse and personal safety
- Financial matters following separation
- Wills, bereavement, and family changes
How we can help
- Provide clear, impartial advice on family law matters
- Help you understand your rights and available options
- Support you in making informed decisions
- Offer casework support for more complex situations
- Liaise with external organisations where appropriate (e.g. social services or support agencies)
- Signpost or refer you to specialist services
What we can help you with
Family issues can affect many areas of your life, including your home, finances, and wellbeing. Our trained advisers provide clear, practical advice tailored to your situation.
We can support you at any stage, whether you’re exploring your options or already involved in legal proceedings.
Examples of support include:
- Explaining your rights when separating from a partner, including housing and finances
- Advising on arrangements for children, including where they live and contact with parents
- Guidance on child maintenance and financial responsibilities
- Support with divorce processes and financial orders
- Advice and support if you are experiencing domestic abuse
- Guidance on kinship care, special guardianship, and wider children law matters
- Advice on eligibility for Legal Aid
How to access our services
Contact methods
- Phone: Call our FREE Adviceline on 0808 278 7900
- Email: lawcentre@northyorkslca.org.uk
- Online enquiry: Complete our referral form
- In person: You can access support at our offices and outreach locations across North Yorkshire
We understand how sensitive family matters can be. All information you share with us is treated in strict confidence and will not be shared without your permission unless required by law.
What to expect when you contact us
When you get in touch, one of our advisers will listen carefully to your situation with understanding and without judgement, and help you identify the best way forward.
Step 1: Initial contact or referral
Step 2: Assessment of your situation and legal needs
Step 3: Tailored advice, guidance, or legal support
Step 4: Ongoing support where appropriate
