New Cafcass guidance for children and family courts
Cafcass has published updated guidance which outlines the arrangements that are currently being made for Family Court Advisers to see children and families.
The guidance also covers Cafcass work in Cafcass offices and attending family court.
Cafcass stands for Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. Cafcass represents children in family court cases in England as well as independently advising the family courts about what is safe for children and in their best interests. We put their needs, wishes and feelings first, making sure that children’s voices are heard at the heart of the family court setting.
The latest guidance from Cafcass states for the expected period of restrictions (until 15th February but subject to review) a Family Court Adviser should only see children and families in-person if the meeting is considered to be the only way to assess and understand children’s experiences, wishes, feelings, hopes for the future and therefore the recommendations that are in their best interest.
All open family courts are Covid-secure and have risk assessments completed by HMCTS. It should be a matter of discussion between the Family Court Adviser and the court on the most effective way that their participation can take place with an agreement reached in advance of a hearing.
Click here for the latest advice and guidance published on the Cafcass website.