🌱 Declaration of Intent to Parent

Parenthood should begin with consent — not coercion.

The Declaration of Intent to Parent is the cornerstone of a consent-based child maintenance system. It formalises what should be obvious: no one should be forced into lifelong legal and financial responsibility without their clear, informed, and voluntary agreement.

The Declaration is a legally recognised statement made before or shortly after conception or at birth registration, in which an individual affirms or declines their intention to assume parental responsibility. It offers a clear, proactive alternative to the current default model — where biology alone determines obligation, regardless of consent or involvement.

• Made early — ideally before conception, before birth, or at the latest birth registration — the declaration would be signed digitally or in writing and securely recorded in a national register (similar to the organ donor system), with opportunities to complete it during outreach programs, antenatal appointments, sexual health clinics, and marriage registration
• Voluntary and informed — both parties must understand the consequences of saying yes or no.
• Legally binding —  if a person says yes, they are bound by future financial obligations. Care responsibilities can be formally established through a Parental Responsibility Agreement (PRA).
• If they say no, they do not assume legal or financial responsibility — unless deception or abuse is later proven.

• Respects bodily autonomy and financial autonomy.
• Encourages open, honest conversations between partners.
• Shifts the focus from punishment to planning — helping avoid future conflict.
• Reduces unjust outcomes where people are held liable despite no agreement or contact.

Under the current system, someone can be legally required to support a child they never intended or agreed to have — even if they’re completely excluded from that child’s life. The Declaration of Intent fixes this by starting responsibility with consent.

It’s not about “opting out” — it’s about opting in to something as serious as parenthood.