Co-parenting is increasingly recognised as a modern alternative to traditional family models and is gaining popularity throughout the United Kingdom. Rather than relying on a romantic partnership or marriage, co-parenting involves two or more adults deliberately agreeing to share the responsibilities of raising a child – whether they live together or not. This model is particularly appealing for singles, LGBTQ+ families, and other non-traditional lifestyles. In this article, we examine the best co-parenting apps and websites of 2025, explain the legal framework in the UK, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this parenting model.
What is Co-Parenting?
Co-parenting – sometimes also called shared parenting – refers to a model in which two or more adults agree in advance to raise a child together without being in a conventional romantic relationship or marriage.
In such an arrangement, financial obligations, caregiving duties and decision-making responsibilities are shared, whether the parents reside in the same household or separately. Typical scenarios include two friends who decide to have a child together or a same-sex couple looking to build a family.
Since UK law generally recognises only two legal parents per child, co-parenting arrangements involving more than two adults can face legal complexities. Therefore, it is highly recommended to have a written co-parenting agreement that clearly outlines issues such as custody, child support, caregiving arrangements and decision-making authority.
The Best Co-Parenting Apps and Websites 2025
1. RattleStork
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Features: Combines co-parenting and sperm donation on one platform with detailed profiles and direct messaging
- Cost: Often free basic functions, with premium features available for a fee
- Suitable for: Individuals considering both co-parenting arrangements and sperm donation
- Website: https://www.rattlestork.org
- Apple: https://apps.apple.com/app/rattlestork/id6503442456
- Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.rattlestork.twa
Brief Profile:
Originally developed as a private platform for sperm donation, RattleStork has progressively integrated co-parenting features. With detailed profiles, users can search for like-minded individuals based on values and lifestyle. Its integrated chat function facilitates trust from the outset – whether you prefer anonymous or open arrangements.
2. Modamily
- Available on: iOS, Web
- Features: Specialises in co-parenting with in-depth matching profiles
- Cost: Various subscription models (details available on the website)
- Suitable for: People seeking a long-term co-parenting partnership
- Website: https://www.modamily.com
Brief Profile:
Modamily is one of the most well-known international platforms for alternative family models. Individuals choosing co-parenting can list their preferences and find suitable partners. Extensive profiles cover personality traits, parenting philosophies and scheduling, while professional advice on psychological or legal matters is available if required.
3. CoParents
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Features: Global user base, a wide range of filter options, combining co-parenting with sperm donation
- Cost: Basic model usually free, with more comprehensive features available for a fee
- Suitable for: Users open to both national and international connections
- Website: https://www.coparents.com
Brief Profile:
CoParents is ideal for those seeking co-parents not only within the UK but also abroad. Thanks to its international approach, the range of potential matches is extensive. However, be aware that cross-border co-parenting may involve additional legal and administrative challenges (such as visa issues or international child support arrangements).
4. Familyship
- Available on: Web
- Features: English-speaking community, online workshops and an expert network
- Cost: Varies depending on the service package
- Suitable for: Individuals seeking assistance in finding a co-parent along with extensive information
- Website: https://www.familyship.org
Brief Profile:
Familyship not only offers the possibility to find a co-parent but also supports users with online seminars, guides, blogs and connections to experts in areas such as law, psychology and medicine. This is particularly attractive for those who are new to co-parenting and require detailed guidance on both legal and practical matters.
5. Pride Angel
- Available on: Web
- Features: Focus on LGBTQ+ families with information on sperm donation and co-parenting
- Cost: Some features free, others available for a fee
- Suitable for: Rainbow families seeking co-parents or donors
- Website: https://www.prideangel.com
Brief Profile:
Originally from the English-speaking world, Pride Angel is also gaining popularity in the UK. It focuses on diverse and vibrant family models – ranging from co-parenting to egg or sperm donation. Users should be mindful of differing legal frameworks and adjust the information provided accordingly.
6. WeAreFamily
- Available on: Web
- Features: Community-focused, enabling exchanges on a variety of family models
- Cost: Basic functions often free, with some services or consultations available for a fee
- Suitable for: Users who value connecting with a nationwide co-parenting community
- Website:(Relatively new platform, partly in English)
Brief Profile:
WeAreFamily is a young, UK-oriented portal that supports a variety of family models – including co-parenting. With group and forum features, members can share experiences and meet potential co-parents, offering a broad spectrum of advice and contacts.
7. ParentLink
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Features: Community-based with integrated scheduling and chat functions
- Cost: Basic functions free, with premium options available
- Suitable for: Parents who value strong networking alongside co-parenting
- Website: https://www.parentlink.com
Brief Profile:
ParentLink combines co-parenting with a vibrant community platform. Users can search for compatible co-parents as well as organise appointments, counselling sessions and private chats. Its intuitive interface simplifies networking and everyday coordination.
8. TogetherParents
- Available on: Web, Android
- Features: Focuses on flexible parenting models with expert forums and counselling services
- Cost: Subscription models with a free trial period
- Suitable for: Individuals who value professional advice and flexible scheduling
- Website: https://www.togetherparents.com
Brief Profile:
TogetherParents is aimed at those who, in addition to finding a co-parent, appreciate professional guidance and flexible scheduling options. The platform offers numerous tools to help plan and organise family life.
9. CoFamilyHub
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Features: Innovative matching algorithms, integrated calendar tools and financial planners
- Cost: Freemium model with optional in-app purchases
- Suitable for: Users seeking comprehensive organisational support for co-parenting
- Website: https://www.cofamilyhub.com
Brief Profile:
CoFamilyHub merges cutting-edge technology with a wide range of services. In addition to a precise matching system, the platform offers tools for shared calendar management and financial planning, making everyday co-parenting more manageable.
Legal Aspects in the UK: What to Consider
Although co-parenting is becoming more common in the United Kingdom, there is no single, unified legislation specifically addressing this model. Instead, the legal framework is governed by a combination of common law principles and various statutory provisions. Most UK courts recognise only two legal parents per child, so co-parenting arrangements involving more than two adults can present legal challenges.
Therefore, it is crucial to establish a written co-parenting agreement that clearly defines key issues such as custody, child support, caregiving responsibilities and decision-making authority. Given the complexity of UK family law, consulting with a family law solicitor is strongly advised.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Co-Parenting
Advantages:
- Expanded Resources: Finances, time and care are shared among several individuals, easing the burden on both the child and the parents.
- Flexibility in Family Structure: Co-parenting is not dependent on a romantic relationship; diverse lifestyles can come together under one framework.
- Enrichment for the Child: The child benefits from multiple caregivers and a variety of perspectives.
- Tailored Agreements: Arrangements can be customised to fit the needs of all parties without being constrained by traditional marriage or partnership structures.
Disadvantages and Challenges:
- Legal Uncertainty: Without specific co-parenting laws, legal disputes can become complex and costly.
- High Communication Demands: Coordinating childcare, finances and decision-making among multiple parties can be challenging.
- Emotional Complications: New relationships, relocations or shifting personal goals of one co-parent may strain the arrangement.
- Limited Legal Recognition: Most courts officially recognise only two legal parents, which can complicate arrangements involving more than two adults.
Conclusion
Co-parenting offers a modern and flexible way to raise a child without relying on a conventional family model. However, if you choose this path, it is important to understand that there is no single legal framework for co-parenting in the UK. A well-drafted co-parenting agreement is essential – especially when sperm donation is part of the equation. Platforms such as RattleStork, Modamily, CoParents, Familyship, Pride Angel, WeAreFamily, along with the new offerings ParentLink, TogetherParents and CoFamilyHub, make it easier to find the right partner and provide invaluable resources. Open communication, shared values in parenting and professional legal advice when necessary are the keys to successful co-parenting.