Evidence shows that parental conflict is common, with almost one in eight children in couple-parent families living with a parent who reported relationship distress in 2018. When conflict between parents is frequent, intense and poorly resolved, it can put children’s mental and physical health at risk including related outcomes such as peer relationships and attainment.

Because factors including parental mental health problems, substance misuse, life events and financial difficulties can increase parental conflict, staff working across different areas in Family Hubs may come into contact with parents and children who are experiencing destructive parental conflict.

This short guide summarises the evidence on parental conflict, and provides practical steps for integrating reducing parental conflict (RPC) into local Family Hubs across: strategic planning; workforce development; leadership, governance and partnership; community services and interventions; and outcomes and evaluation.