Section 7 cafcass visit

[Hullabalooo]

I'm due a visit from cafcass at some point soon for Section 7 report. I have no idea what to expect and experiences of Cafcass to date aren't great but wondered if anyone had any tips on this.

How long do they come for, what kind of questions do they ask etc etc? Is it a good idea to prepare for it? What to do if so.

[Hullabalooo]

Anyone?

[Sooverthemill]

I haven't had one so I can't help but I googled and there are lots of websites that give advice about this. If you're the parent they ask questions about what you want

this link is guidance for people who undertake the report and page 5 on gives an idea of the sorts of stuff they want to find out about. HTH

[Lulabelle14]

Hey It's been a fair while since I went through the process so hopefully someone will be along and remember better!
They normally come round for about an hour, ask you questions about yourself, the child(ren) and relationship with the other parent. If you have concerns this is the time to raise it and if you have evidence then do so as well. It's easy to say and hard to do in practice but just take a deep breath and keep calm, answer honestly. From my experience any overt emotions were frowned upon. I've gone through this twice and the second time the woman involved was very knowledgeable and helpful. If the child(ren) live with you they like to meet them but ensure they are distracted or you can arrange someone to have them for a bit so you can talk with no fear of the children overhearing. They appreciate this isn't something can be done instantly so make sure all are settled before you start. I showed them round our home can't remember if they asked tho!

I hope this helps and good luck x

[Hullabalooo]

I've cried in both the two recent cafcass phone calls and meetings..I can't help it.. it's so distressing and has been so awful I just start weeping when I talk about it.. does that count against me to you think. I still manage to state my case but through tears.

[tipocura]

I think it depends on who you get tbh. I've spoken to 4 people from Cafcass and cried through 3 of the conversations. 2 of them viewed my emotions as negative, 1 said that my emotions showed honesty and the most recent one felt I was dishonest because I was more direct and not teary. No consideration for the fact that time has passed so I've made peace with the situation! It's the luck of the draw unfortunately because Cafcass are notoriously unpredictable.

[Lulabelle14]

Totally agree with @tipocura it is sadly the luck of the draw. Write some bullet points to help you through it I did that last time and was very honest and said I didn't want to forget anything by going off (on what they may view) as a tangent.
Remember if you are not happy with who you speak to or in the outcome you can challenge this. It's your life they are making a snapshot view on.

[Hullabalooo]

Thank you. This is really helpful feedback

[Hullabalooo]

Anyone know how long it takes for cafcass to get in touch after ordering a section 7 report.