Frequently Asked Questions

What is a child contact centre?

A child contact centre is a safe, friendly, and neutral place where children of separated families can spend time with one or both parents, and, sometimes, other family members. It is a child-centred environment that puts the needs of the children first.

What is it like at a child contact centre?

The most important people in the Child Contact Centre are the children. 

We aim to create a warm, sociable atmosphere where children and their families can relax and enjoy themselves. The centre has an area with a variety of games, toys, and books for children of all ages.

Fully trained volunteers or staff operate the Supported Child Contact Centre. They are all impartial, so they do not take sides. They work to a strict confidentiality policy and have all been police-checked.

How are visits arranged?

Visits are by referral. The referral can be completed by both Resident and Non-Resident Parent, a social worker, solicitor, family mediator or by a CAFCASS Officer. 

The person making the referral completes a referral form and forwards it to Child and Family Connect. How often you attend depends on you and when the centre is open.

An Interview Assessment (Pre-visit) date will be sent directly to both parents. The Pre-visit is an opportunity to introduce the centre and volunteers and to express your expectations and ascertain our expectations of you and will help to make your first and subsequent visits easier.

Do I have to meet my ex-partner when I visit the centre?

Not if you do not want to. Please let us know and we can arrange separate waiting areas. However, children need a familiar face so please wait with them until your ex-partner arrives - this applies to both parties. 

Is there anything I need to do?

As this is a time for children to spend with the parent they no longer live with, we request that disagreements are kept out of the Child Contact Centre. 

Remember that it is a new experience for your child - please try to make it as easy as possible for them.

What happens if I cannot come at a time when I have arranged?

It is your responsibility to ensure that your ex-partner is informed; if you do not wish to contact them directly you can contact June (Referral manager) by phone, text or email and she will attempt to pass the message along. 

Does the centre make any reports about us?

Child and family Connect is independent of the courts, social services, or any statutory agency. No written or verbal reports are made regarding visits apart from dates and times of attendance. An exception is if we believe a child to be at risk of harm or if a member of staff, volunteer or other centre user is at risk of harm.

How much does it cost?

£90, non-refundable, administration fee for 12 sessions payable on submission of referral and prior to commencement of processing referral form.

If you have any further questions, please contact us on childandfamilyconnect@yahoo.com