Supporting stronger families through better communication: free online courses now available
18 November 2025
A suite of free online courses designed to support expecting parents, parents and co-parents in building healthier relationships through better communication have now launched.
Parenting isn’t always easy, whether you're preparing for a new baby, navigating co-parenting after separation, or simply trying to manage the daily ups and downs of family life, these courses aim to support families and carers build stronger, more resilient relationships through better communication.
When communication breaks down, it can affect everyone in the household. Children, even when they don’t understand the words being said, can feel the emotional impact of tension between parents. Learning how to stay calm, listen actively, and resolve disagreements constructively can make a big difference, for you and for them.
Funded by Department of Work and Pensions, the Council are offering three tailored online courses, accessible via phone, tablet, or computer. These courses are designed to support parents with practical tools to handle stress, reduce conflict, and create a more positive environment for your children, no matter your family setup.
Available courses include:
- Arguing better – Designed for all parents, this course focuses on managing stress, accessing support, and resolving conflict constructively.
- Me, you, and Baby Too – Tailored for new parents, this course supports the transition into life with a baby and the changes it brings to relationships.
- Getting it right for children – Created for separated or separating parents, this course helps reduce the impact of conflict on children and promotes cooperative co-parenting.
- Debt management - Money worries can cause stress in relationships. This module offers practical advice if you or your partner are in debt.
To access these resources, parents simply need to select their local authority and create an account on the Relationships Matter website. For more information or to speak to a member of the team in person about support for families, please visit our Family Hubs available in West Northamptonshire, either in-person, or via the Family Hub Website.
It is important to note that these courses are intended to support parents experiencing conflict. They are not suitable for situations involving domestic abuse. If you or someone you know feels unsafe in a relationship, support is available:
- NDAS (Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service): 0300 0120 154
- Eve (support for women and children): 07827 239496
- In an emergency, always call 999