Step parenting

[Curiouscat28]

For context only…. I have not met my partners child (10). This is due to the ex not allowing him to see the child for over a year. We have now secured arrangements via the court.
There will be a lengthy transitional period of just them reconnecting and then small amounts of time, introducing me before eventual overnight stays in the home we share, this will be at the child’s pace.
Any advice would be welcome on how to do it right please?

What is the reason ex didn't want him seeing his child?

Did you instigate court proceedings ?

She wanted them to work it out and he didn’t. Then we got together and when he told her she got very upset. Said child didn’t want to see him and that she wasn’t stopping child. However refused counselling for child, refused mediation in the end we had no choice but to go to court. Ex volunteered access in court as child said wants to see him. But this is not a bashing about ex, what is done is done

Yes we did

So what happens now?
Does the child even know him?

Did you read the op?

Has he paid any maintenance over the last 10 years?

Yes of course it has been a year

@PrawnAgain
I did.
And my question asks if it is only since the op came on the scene that the child’s father has suddenly decided that he wants contact.

Yes!!!

He has always seen the child, access was stopped when I came on the scene. Cafcass found no concerns, child’s ex stated no concerns. I am really trying hard to not judge her and just move on, hence the reason for my post.

@Curiouscat28 I think your slow approach seems right. Prioritising time for your partner to get to know his son again before introducing you.

I think it's quite likely the child will have been subjected to some parental alienation over the past year which could make things very difficult for all concerned.

No where in ops post does it say its a son.