Guide to Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) for Divorced Parents

The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) in Singapore supports divorcing parents with minor children by providing e-learning and consultation sessions. This programme equips parents with co-parenting skills and knowledge, aiming to minimise conflict and reduce the emotional distress experienced by children during and after divorce, thus promoting their ongoing well-being.

What Is the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) in Singapore?

The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) aims to guide divorcing parents towards cooperative co-parenting. This legal requirement was initiated by the Ministry of Social and Family Development to ensure parents prioritise their children's welfare and seek constructive resolutions.

The sessions are facilitated by trained professionals from Divorce Support Specialist Agencies (DSSAs), specialising in family therapy, child psychology, and divorce mediation. They guide parents through the emotional and psychological complexities of co-parenting, offering support and strategies through e-learning and consultations.

Who Needs to Attend?

Under Section 94A of Singapore's Women's Charter, parents with children under 21 must attend the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) before filing for divorce, whether contested or not. Failure to complete the CPP, which must occur within two years of filing, can delay or prevent divorce proceedings or cross-applications.

However, this compulsory programme does not apply to Muslim divorces. In such cases, the Syariah Court mandates counselling through its Marriage Counselling Programme (MCP) for Muslim parents with children under 21 before they can file for divorce.

What Are the Components of the CPP?

The Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) in Singapore comprises two key components: an e-learning module and consultation sessions.

• E-Learning Module

  The CPP's e-learning component is structured into five modules with audio and interactive elements. It takes about 1.5 hours and is designed for individual completion by each parent. Its self-assessment tools aim to enhance understanding of the marital situation, co-parenting dynamics, and the children's needs. Parents facing visual/auditory impairments or technical difficulties can seek assistance from the Strengthening Families Programme@Family Service Centre (FAM@FSC).

• Consultation Sessions

  Following the completion of the e-learning component, parents are required to schedule a consultation with a counsellor within six months. These meetings aim to guide parents in making child-centred decisions and navigating the complexities of co-parenting. The divorcing spouses can take these sessions individually or together, provided both parents have finished the e-learning.

  The number of consultation sessions ranges from one to three. The initial consultation serves to determine the number of sessions needed. During these sessions, counsellors help parents make informed decisions on their marriage, address co-parenting strategies, develop a co-parenting plan, and more. These consultations can be conducted either in person or virtually, depending on logistical and personal circumstances.

Registration Process

The registration process for Singapore's Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) is designed to be efficient, requiring parents to follow a structured sequence of steps.

• Complete CPP Questionnaire

  The initial step in the CPP registration process involves completing the CPP questionnaire on the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) website. This questionnaire is crucial as it determines whether couples are required to attend the Co-Parenting Programme.

• Access the E-Learning Portal

  If the CPP questionnaire indicates that attendance is necessary, parents must then proceed to log in to the Family Development portal using their Singpass account. Once logged in, they can access the CPP E-Learning Portal where they need to complete the online e-learning module.

  The e-learning module can be completed at the parents' own pace, allowing for flexibility and convenience.

• Book Consultation Sessions

  Upon successful completion of the e-learning module, parents are automatically directed to an online booking platform. Here, they can select a suitable time slot for their consultation, with available appointments typically visible three days from the login date.

  Parents have the flexibility to choose any Family Service Centre (FAM@FSC) for their CPP consultation. However, should an earlier appointment be required, particularly for those filing a cross-application, they are advised to contact FAM@FSC directly.

• Attend Consultation Sessions

  The final step in the CPP process involves attending the scheduled consultation session at the chosen FAM@FSC. During this session, parents are expected to actively participate in the consultation with the counsellor, engaging in discussions and activities designed to facilitate effective co-parenting.

What Happens after CPP Completion?

Upon successful completion of the CPP, a Certification of Completion is issued, enabling parents to proceed with their divorce process. This certification is necessary to file for divorce, file a cross-application in response to a spouse's divorce petition, or continue with ongoing divorce proceedings. The certificate is valid for two years.

Are There Any Exemptions?

Exemptions from Singapore's Co-Parenting Programme (CPP) are granted only under exceptional circumstances:

• Mental Incapacity: Individuals with legally declared mental incapacity, supported by medical or legal documentation, are exempt due to their inability to make informed decisions.
• Permission by the Court: In exceptional circumstances, such as domestic violence or abuse, Singapore Courts may waive the CPP requirement to expedite divorce proceedings for the family's and child's well-being.

These cases are reviewed on an individual basis, and the necessity of CPP attendance may be waived. Given the stringent nature of these exemptions, those seeking exclusion should consult legal counsel or the relevant authorities to understand the specific criteria and application process.

FAQs About CPP