Glossary

Child arrangements order

Definition: A child arrangements order is a court order that sets out where a child lives and who they spend time with.

Reviewed by Chris Yaffes, FMC-accredited mediator (FMC URN 0961A). Last reviewed 9 July 2026.

It replaced the older terms residence and contact, sometimes still called custody and access. An order can also set out how and when a child has other contact, such as phone or video calls.

Many families never need one, because a parenting plan agreed in mediation works well. An order is enforceable by the court, whereas a parenting plan is not.

Frequently asked questions

Is custody the same as a child arrangements order?

The term custody is no longer used in England and Wales. A child arrangements order now sets out where a child lives and who they spend time with.

Do we need a child arrangements order?

Not if you can agree. Many parents use a parenting plan from mediation instead, and only go to court if they cannot agree.

Sources

  1. Children Act 1989, section 8, legislation.gov.uk. Accessed 9 July 2026.