Cafcass s7

[frozen10]

I have an appointment with Cafcass next week for then to prepare section 7 report. Its regarding a move from UK to European city. My DS who is 7yo and I will be interviewed. I've written a statement setting out how I would maintain contact with the father in UK and why the move is positive etc. Can someone tell me how I can prep my DS for the interview, will I be present in the room (can I insist to be) and equally any tips on what I should say. I know I criticising the father would be detrimental. Despite him being really useless over the years ! Thank you !

I had same experience with Cafcass when I applied for residency of my daughter. I didn’t prep her as they will know straight away if what she said was rehearsed or someone else’s opinion. I just told her why they want to talk to her and to be honest & whatever she said would be private. No I doubt you will be allowed in with him and even if you insist they will refuse and it might come across as though you need to influence his thoughts/answers in some way. Definitely do not criticise his father or ask him to as that is seriously frowned upon by cafcass and it will likely be written into the S7 report that you have animosity towards him and are influencing your sons opinion of his Father.

Hi frozen10,

Sorry if its too much of a personal question, but I was just wondering what reasons you gave as to moving abroad? My first court hearing is coming up and I've not yet spoke to CAFCASS but I was scared that I wouldn't be able to move abroad? I wasn't sure if this was possible?
Good luck with your case!

Hi frozen10, I did this 5 years ago.

We are now very happy & settled overseas & life is pretty good!

I can only say do not try to coach your dc as this will stand out a mile. If he is genuinely up for the move that will come across.

As he's quite young his wishes are unlikely to be an absolute clincher either way.

In my case, it was quite telling that all 3dc were in agreement, but in court there was much more focus on me having a job to go to, secure accommodation & childcare etc.

Hi both , is there a PM a function on Mumsnet ? I'd be interested to know where you moved to ? Ie how many hours flight ?

If you've got questions about relocation pm me, I withdrew my application largely due to cafcass report