Call for research participants

Alumni are invited to take part in research to understand family life and children’s experiences of shared parenting.

Project overview

In the United Kingdom approximately 30% of children experience their parents’ separation. Many parents and professionals advocate that it is in the child’s best interests to experience ‘shared care’. Yet, the evidence exploring links between different post-separation child arrangements and children’s wellbeing is largely based on studies outside of the UK. Furthermore, the voices of children under eight and of families who make arrangements outside of the family courts have been largely overlooked. 

Informed by work with families and stakeholders, this multi-method project aims to increase understanding of family life and children’s adjustment and experiences of post-separation parenting in Scottish and English families. It is hoped that the study findings will inform recommendations on how best to support parents and children in England and Scotland post separation/divorce.

About the project lead

This project is led by Dr Sarah Foley who is a Lecturer in Developmental Psychology in Moray House School of Education and Sport at the University of Edinburgh. Sarah’s research explores family relationships and children’s social, emotional and academic adjustment across diverse family forms and transitions. Sarah leads the Parenting After Divorce or Separation Study through her ESRC New Investigator Grant.

Take part

Dr Foley and her team are looking to recruit parents who are interested in discussing their experiences of family life post separation or divorce.

Who can participate?

Parents of 4 – 8-year-olds who:

  • have regular contact with their child(ren) and co-parent with their child’s other parent;
  • do not have a court ordered child arrangement;
  • have been separated for at least six months;
  • are comfortable taking part in English;
  • live in Scotland or England.
What will it involve?
  • An online interview about your co-parenting journey.
  • A survey on family life, your wellbeing and child development.
  • Children are also invited to take part if they wish to (the team have a game as well as some fun picture and story-telling activities prepared).

All activities will be carried out online at a time of your choice. They can be split into separate parent and child sessions, and overall will last approximately 1.5 – 2 hours. As a thank you for your time, parents and children will receive a gift voucher.

Participation is confidential and does not require all family members to take part.

If you’re interested in being involved or would like to hear more about the study, please email Dr Sarah Foley sarah.foley@ed.ac.uk or sign up below for more information before 28th February 2026.

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