Has anyone had any experience with a cafcass video call?
Hi there, in what context?
Is this part of a Section 7 Report or initial Safeguarding?
S7? Safeguarding letter still not received and onto the S7.
If it's for an S7, I would imagine it will be on video due to Covid and will be the same as if you were going to their offices or they were visiting you at your home.
Stay child focused, answer what is asked of you. Try not to get into being too negative about the other parent, just be factual if there are issues.
If you have specific issues going on rather than general safeguarding questions, be prepared to discuss these openly.
Best of luck
if its for S7 report make it clear what arrangements your seeking. they will probably expect you to answer to some allegations.
just to add - allegations aren't always raised - sometimes it's the other parent stating 'it's what the child wants' etc.
Just be open and honest and as Bill says, make sure you have a clear idea of the eventual arrangements you are suggesting going forward.
I have had two S.7 meetings now. First for the main report and then an addendum ordered by the Court as the case has dragged on so long.
I was asked about allegations in the first meeting, which I responded honestly. The same allegations were brought up again by my ex wife, after they had already been dealt with by CAFCASS in the previous report (my ex wife seemingly didn't like their response). In the second meeting, the same allegations haven't been discussed at all.
I think be yourself, factual and explain your concerns for the children without being bitter or angry towards the ex partner. If you have done something that you are not proud about then be honest about it rather than try and hide things.
Thank you, did you get given a questionnaire to answer?
@unknown-3 sorry for delay. Message board was down when I was going to reply.
No i haven't had any questionnaire from CAFCASS. Have you had one?
@unknown-3 Hi, I was given a questionnaire to complete. was called parenting tool/styles. Asked questions like why do babies cry? If there difference to caring for boys and girls? when would you let your kids go to the shops by themselves etc...
Has anyone had any experience with a cafcass video call?
Yes. Had one. Went well. Make sure you stay child focused. Try and be in an upbeat, positive mood, and smile when you talk about your child. They pick up on these things. Have a few points written down ahead of the interview, things you feel need to be discussed. On interviews like this, your emotions rise and that can derail your thinking.
Wishing you the best. Im still waiting on my S7 report after the interview. Its been 3 weeks.