In our shared mission to improve outcomes for children and families, working with faith and diverse communities is not just beneficial—it is essential. Our Voluntary Community Sector, often serve as trusted spaces where families seek guidance, support, and connection. By engaging them meaningfully, we can co-produce strategies that are culturally sensitive, inclusive, and grounded in lived experience.

Reducing parental conflict is a vital step toward fostering healthier family environments. Research consistently shows that children thrive when their parents maintain positive, respectful relationships. Positive parenting, in turn, is deeply influenced by the quality of the parental relationship. When parents feel supported and connected, they are better equipped to nurture, guide, and respond to their children’s needs.

Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL), in partnership with Leeds City Council Relationship Matters programme has published a new findings report. This report presents the findings of a collaborative project aimed at reducing parental conflict within diverse cultural contexts in Leeds. Led by Leeds City Council in partnership with Voluntary Action Leeds and other community-based organisations, the initiative focuses on improving outcomes for children by addressing relationship distress between parents and carers.

Supported by funding from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The key objective was to facilitate early support through closer engagement with voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector partners

“By listening to and working alongside those with lived experience, we build trust, empower families, and create solutions that reflect the strengths and values of the communities we serve. Together, through partnership and shared purpose, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, loving, and supportive environment.”

Toni Smith Relationships Matters Co-ordinator

You can read the full report here.

Voluntary Action Leeds