Parental separation is a common occurrence in New Zealand and other western countries. Research indicates that parental separation is often associated with negative outcomes for children and that parents can help to minimise the impact of separation on their children. Programmes have been developed for parents to assist them to help their children. These programmes aim to educate parents on the impact of separation on children, how to minimise parental conflict and how to make post-separation care arrangements that are in children's best interests.
The Ministry of Justice has funded the development and provision of the Parenting Through Separation (PTS) programme for separating parents in New Zealand. This report presents an evaluation of the PTS programme. Information was obtained from multiple informants, including programme providers and programme participants. This information was used to evaluate the programme in terms of its goals and its impact on parents.
A review of the objectives, focus and content of the PTS programme in terms of 'best practice' in parent-education programmes for separating parents indicates that the PTS programme is in line with 'best practice'. The PTS course is child focused and covers a broad range of topics in the time available. These topics are similar to those covered in overseas programmes. Having clear goals and a programme manual helps maintain a child focus and helps to ensure that all providers are clear as to what is to be delivered to parents. There is also a good variety of supporting materials (eg, DVDs) to help providers with programme delivery.