Child arrangements order

[Lesleymumto2]

Hello can anyone help me with writing a position statement regarding child arrangements? I need to do a position statement for final hearing. I would like to use contact center as a drop off point to begin with and then progress the order. Had anyone got any experience in writing this? I just want to try and have a position statement prepared so I don't get all flustered in court or miss anything out. I am just looking for some pointers and tips if possible. Children are currenrly using contact center and they are happy using this service. It's been 4 months. So I was hoping we would be able to use it for a further 2 months. Then progress from there but I honestly have no idea what to propose. I know long term children will start staying over at fathers house. In terms of school holidays and special occasions this is difficult as father has never had children for any holidays. His job is very demanding and he hasn't ever offered to have them. Which isn't an issue as I have always sorted them. I don't want the court order to be too strict in terms of demanding he has them however if he wants the opportunity to have them then he can. I would just need plenty notice. Any tips and advice would be greatly appreciated as I want to try and be as clear as possible in this final hearing. And hopefully never have to attend court again. It's mentally draining and such a stressful experience.

I’ve been in a really similar position so I totally get how stressful and overwhelming it all feels! Having a position statement does help give structure in the hearing.

From what you've said, you're thinking really sensibly already - keeping the contact centre for now, gradually moving things forward, and not wanting anything too rigid in case he doesn’t follow through. That’s all really fair, and exactly the kind of approach the court tends to respect.

Basic structure is:

1. brief outline of situation so far
2. biggest concerns or issues
3. your proposals

Tips:

• Keep it short, clear, and focused on what’s best for the kids.
• Mention how well they’re doing with the contact centre and your proposal to continue it for another 2 months.
• Say you're open to progressing contact slowly, but only if it's consistent and works for the children.
• For holidays, maybe suggest it can be considered if/when dad’s able to commit - with plenty of notice.

I used www.familylawdecisions.co.uk if you want help with it

Thank you so much this is very helpful. Xx