FAQ

1. What is a supervised contact session and how does it work?
Supervised contact allows a parent or family member to spend time with their child in a safe and structured environment, with a trained contact supervisor present at all times. Supervisors ensure the child’s safety, provide support, and document the session in line with any court or local authority requirements.

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2. Can I bring someone with me to contact sessions?
This depends on the referral agreement and risk assessment. In most cases, contact is arranged between the child and a specified individual only. If you'd like someone else to attend, this will need to be approved in advance by the referring professional or through agreement with our service.

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3. What is indirect contact and when is it used?
Indirect contact is used when face-to-face contact isn't suitable. It involves exchanging letters, emails, video messages, or voice notes between a parent and child. All communications are checked by our team before being shared, ensuring they are safe, appropriate, and in the child’s best interest.

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4. How do you assess whether I’m a safe parent?
Our parenting assessments are carried out by qualified professionals and explore how well you meet your child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs. We use observations, structured interviews, and evidence-based tools to ensure a fair, respectful and balanced assessment.

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5. Can I request a change to my contact arrangements?
Yes, but any changes must be discussed with the referring agency (e.g., social worker or court) and agreed upon before we can adjust the arrangements. We’re happy to support conversations around changes where appropriate and in the child’s best interests.

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6. What is community contact?
Community contact takes place in a local public venue such as a park or café, rather than at a centre. It’s suitable for families progressing towards unsupervised contact. A staff member will remain present or nearby to observe and ensure the child’s safety.

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7. Will I receive a report after each contact session?
Yes. For supervised contact, a detailed observation report is completed after each session. These reports can be shared with the referring party (such as a social worker, solicitor, or the court), and include factual information on the interaction between the child and adult.

 

8. What happens if my child becomes upset during contact?
Our trained staff are sensitive to children’s emotional needs. If a child becomes distressed, the session will be paused or ended early if necessary, and support will be provided. The child’s wellbeing is always our top priority.

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9. How long does a parenting assessment take?
A standard parenting assessment can take between 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of assessment and level of involvement required. We aim to complete all assessments promptly while ensuring they are thorough, evidence-based, and fair.

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10. What is mediation and do I have to attend with the other parent?
Mediation is a voluntary process that helps parents or carers resolve disagreements about contact or parenting arrangements. You don’t need to attend together — sessions can be held separately or jointly, depending on what’s safest and most productive. The goal is always to support safe, child-focused outcomes.