Child Arrangements Support Services
The Cafcass Interview
Preparing for Cafcass
The Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service is a national social work agency that carries out assessments and reports in family proceedings. Where there is a private law application they will file an initial report called a Safeguarding Letter based on police and Local Authority checks, as well as a brief interview of the parties. If the court direct further investigation Cafcass will complete a welfare (Section 7) report, which will involve seeing the children and making broader enquiries.
It is important that parents are aware of the role and significance of the involvement of Cafcass. It is helpful to prepare to work with your Cafcass officer (Family Court Adviser) to ensure your position is best understood. As a Family Court Mentor I will advise and support you through the court process. Because of my professional Social Work background I am in a unique position to help parents prepare for meetings the FCA and making the most of the interview that will influence the report the outcome of the proceedings.
Below is a list of key points to consider for these interviews. A more thorough approach bespoke to the matter in court will require engaging me as the Family Court Mentor.
The initial safeguarding interview normally takes place over the telephone and lasts between twenty and sixty minutes. The interview for a welfare report can also be carried out remotely, but it is likely to take place in the home or at the Cafcass office.
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The Parent Checklist:
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1. Make a list in advance of all the key information that needs to be shared. have evidence to share (eg text messages) if the FCA wants to see them.
2. If the interview is at home ensure that it is ready to greet the FCA. Offer a drink and make them comfortable. Ask where they would like to meet you. Ensure the meeting can be private.
3. If the meeting is at the office, be on time or a little early to compose yourself.
4. Greet the FCA warmly and establish a rapport. First impressions count.
5. Allow the FCA to explain their role and ask their questions they have prepared. They may have questionnaires and other 'practice aids' for you to complete.
6. The FCA will make notes by hand or on their laptop. Find ways to ensure eye contact.
7. Answer all questions clearly and succinctly. Ask to rephrase if you do not understand. Be honest and reflective. Do not focus on criticising the other party, but be balanced and fair despite how much you have been hurt.
8. If discussing risk and harm, give examples (particularly of the worst and most recent examples as well as a pattern of behaviour). She what the impact has or will be on you ad the child(ren).
9. Describe your child(ren) and how you spend time with them. Be aware of their needs and wishes.
10. Share little of your past relationship/marriage but focus on how you want to co-parent effectively.
11. Ask the FCA for their views and advice on co-parenting.
12. Be clear on the outcomes you feel will be best for the family.
13. Ensure you take the opportunity to ask a question or comment but the end of the interview. Tick off your checklist as you go along so not to miss sharing the information you need to.
14. Do not expect the FCA to share their thinking at such an early stage. Ask them whether there is anymore they wish to know about, including family or professionals to contact. Ask if they plan to see your child(ren) with you.
15. Ensure the FCA is clear the process and the timetable.
Contact
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