Absent father

[Scarlett1705]

My daughters father suffers with extreme mental health issues, along with addiction and has been inconsistent in her life since she was born. We separated shortly after and I felt I tried my best to keep it amicable for her sake but a few years ago he disappeared off the face of the earth. I have reason to believe he is no longer in the country, but he did not let us know.
It is very difficult to explain this to my dd who has just started school this year and is now around families with two parents a lot of the time. She is finding this extremely upsetting.
I am also starting to have negative thoughts about if something happened to me, and how I need to legally get something in place for if the worst was to happen to me to determine who she would end up living with. Has anyone got any advice on what I need to do/put in place?

many thanks in advance

Poor child. Must be difficult to speak to her about family dynamics or her dad.

Is he on the birth certificate?

You need to make a Will, nominating a guardian, and also trustees for any money/property you leave (these roles do not have to be done by the same person, and indeed it can be better if they are not)

Wills can be challenged, so you need to take advice form a solicitor (or will writer) about how to make it as hard to challenge as possible - that might include stating how her father has disappeared from her life, is essentially a stranger to her, and you believe he may be resident overseas. You wish you DC to remain resident in this country (the only home she has ever known) near wider family and friends, for support. etc. Anything about her needs, and who can best meet them and where.

Consider naming a back up guardian as well as first nominee (in case they can't take the role - you don't want a gap he could potentially step in to)

Those are just some thoughts - get professional advice.