'I can remember mum always used to make plans and then not show up. It really hurt and we always felt let down. It was pretty bad'
Emma, aged 18

'It's taken me years to get over my dad not wanting to be in my life. Now I know he's the one missing out on all the things I've done. I also know there are people who love me and do want to spend time with me'
Janine, aged 18

Keeping in touch

One of your parents may move away after the separation and this can make it challenging to spend time with them. While it's not your job to arrange time to see both parents, here's some tips for keeping in touch. You could also use these strategies to keep in touch with friends.

Make regular times to talk on the phone.
Write letters.
Send emails. If you do not already have your own private email address you can set one up through a range of websites including yahoo, hotmail or gmail.
Send a text message.

Remember it's not your fault if one parent moves away and it's okay to tell them how you feel about it.

If you find one of your parents lets you down make a back-up plan. Make an agreement with your other parent, or some friends, to do something fun later that day. It could be anything you enjoy doing.