I have been on the CAFCASS website and know that among other things in disputes over access following separation/divorce a CAFCASS officer will act in the interests of the child/children, they are qualified social workers, fully idendpendent of the Courts etc.
I also know they make a report to the Court after meeting with and having discussions with both parties and children too and that when children are older they can speak directly to the officer and their wishes can be taken into consideration as well.
However, my question is that some children (especially where there is abuse present in the home) may well end up saying what one parent wants them to say, they may even say that they are their wishes but have been manipulated to say these things and to see the other parent as bad.
If other family members have vital information about an abusive situation have they got any right to have a meeting with the CAFCASS officer assigned to the case to provide them with vital background information which could well have a significant bearing on what goes into his/her report and the outcome of the case?