Contact Centres: A Neutral Space for Child-Parent Relationships
Child Contact Centres provide a neutral, child-friendly environment for children to spend time with a parent they no longer live with. Located throughout the United Kingdom, these centres are staffed by trained volunteers and professionals who remain impartial and have undergone enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) or DBS checks.
What Are Child Contact Centres?
Contact centres are designed to support children and parents during difficult family transitions. They offer:
- Neutral environments equipped with toys, games, and child-friendly facilities.
- Opportunities for children to maintain relationships with both parents, vital for their emotional well-being.
Most supported centres are free or low-cost, making them accessible to families in need.
Short-Term Use of Contact Centres
Child contact centres are typically intended as a short-term solution, often lasting 6–10 sessions. However, in some cases, families may use them longer due to delays in case progression or a lack of alternative arrangements.
In certain situations, courts or parents may suggest alternative meeting locations, such as public libraries or children’s centres, which may be more convenient and less formal.
Supported vs. Supervised Contact
- Supported Contact:
- No close observation or evaluation of parent-child interactions.
- Staff are nearby to assist with handovers or facility use.
- No reports or monitoring are provided, except for basic attendance notes.
- Supervised Contact:
- Involves close monitoring by trained professionals, such as social workers.
- Detailed reports are written for each session and may be shared with parents or the court. If CAFCASS is involved, reports may need to be obtained through them.
Independence and Impartiality
Contact centres operate independently from the courts, social services, and other statutory agencies. They do not take sides or involve themselves in conflicts between parents.
Their primary focus is to create a safe, neutral environment where children can build and maintain healthy relationships with both parents.
Conclusion
Child contact centres play a critical role in fostering positive parent-child relationships in challenging family circumstances. Whether through supported or supervised contact, these centres provide a space for meaningful interaction, helping to ensure the child’s emotional and developmental needs are met.
For guidance on legal processes, such as applying for a Child Arrangements Order, check out our free guide to completing Form C100.