MANAGING A SPLIT DURING LOCKDOWN

The end of a relationship is always hard, but with such limited support available, Emma advises how to get through it now

Ialways suggest couples’ counselling to determine whether you really do want to end your romance, but if you have made the decision, managing it in a civilised way is crucial, particularly if you have kids.

As you will likely have to stay living together for a while, divide up chores, life admin and childcare to avoid petty rows.

Money is always contentious, but arbitration can be expensive, so if you can come to a cordial agreement, you may save yourselves stress and a fortune in solicitors fees. Sit down together and come up with a budget for the running of the home and childcare costs. It may feel clinical, but the sooner you both confront this, the sooner you can come to a mutually acceptable solution.

Space matters in a break-up because you will be carrying emotional pain. The only time you can attend to this is when you have time alone, so agree to schedule a few hours a day where you can each get out and have some space to decompress. Feelings will run high, but know you won’t resolve anything by screaming and slamming doors, so, if you feel rage rising, take some time out and, once calmer, return to discuss the problem. Kids shouldn’t witness hostility between parents, so avoid conflictual conversations around them. Even if you’re certain a breakup is best, mediation can still work wonders when it comes to working out the most peaceful exit from your relationship possible, which is best for all parties affected. Try Relate.uk, which has online sessions.