Who are Cafcass
Who Are Cafcass and What Do They Do? A Parent’s Guide
If you’re involved in family court proceedings in England, there’s a good chance you’ll hear the name Cafcass. For many parents, Cafcass can feel intimidating or confusing — especially when emotions are already running high.
This guide explains who Cafcass are, what they do, and how to prepare for their involvement, so you know what to expect and how to approach the process calmly and confidently.
Who are Cafcass?
Cafcass stands for the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. It is an independent national organisation that works alongside the family courts in England.
Cafcass is not:
Social services
The police
Part of the court system
Although many Cafcass officers are qualified social workers, their role is different. Cafcass advise the court on what arrangements are in the best interests of the child.
When Do Cafcass Get Involved?
Cafcass usually becomes involved when parents cannot agree on arrangements for their child, such as:
Where a child should live
How much time a child spends with each parent
Concerns about safety, conflict, or wellbeing
They may also be involved in:
Care proceedings
Adoption cases
What Do Cafcass Actually Do?
Cafcass’s primary role is to represent the child’s welfare and voice in court proceedings.
Their key responsibilities include:
1. Safeguarding Checks
They carry out checks with:
The police
Local authorities
This helps identify any known risks or concerns relating to the child’s safety.
2. Speaking to Parents and Children
A Cafcass officer — known as a Family Court Adviser (FCA) — will usually speak to both parents and, where appropriate, the child.
They aim to understand:
Family dynamics
Each parent’s position
The child’s needs, routine, and emotional wellbeing
Children are never asked to choose between parents.
3. Preparing Reports for the Court
If directed by the judge, Cafcass prepares reports (most commonly a Section 7 report) to help the court make informed decisions.
4. Making Recommendations
Cafcass provides professional recommendations to the judge about what arrangements are most likely to support the child’s welfare.
Judges often place significant weight on Cafcass recommendations, although the final decision always rests with the court.
What Is a Section 7 Report?
A Section 7 report is one of the most important documents in family court proceedings.
It usually includes:
Background information about the family
Each parent’s views and proposals
The child’s wishes and feelings (age-appropriate)
Any safeguarding or risk concerns
An analysis based on the welfare checklist
Clear recommendations to the court
Because of its influence, how you engage with Cafcass during this process really matters.
What Happens During a Cafcass Interview?
Cafcass interviews can take place:
In person
By video call
Occasionally by phone
During the interview, the FCA may ask about:
Your child’s routine, education, health, and relationships
Your relationship with the other parent
Any concerns you have
What arrangements you are asking the court to make — and why
They will also explore whether you can support your child having a relationship with the other parent, where it is safe to do so.
How to Prepare for Cafcass Involvement
What Helps
Stay calm, honest, and child-focused
Speak about behaviours and facts, not insults or blame
Show you understand your child’s emotional needs
Demonstrate a willingness to reduce conflict
Keep notes or evidence of important issues
What to Avoid
Coaching your child
Exaggerating concerns
Speaking negatively about the other parent
Being defensive or aggressive
Hiding relevant information
Cafcass officers are trained to assess credibility and consistency, so honesty is essential.
What Cafcass Is Really Looking For
At the heart of every Cafcass assessment is one central question:
“What arrangement best supports this child’s welfare, safety, and emotional stability?”
They generally prioritise:
Safety and protection from harm
Emotional warmth and secure parenting
Stability and consistency
Reduced parental conflict
Maintaining meaningful relationships where safe
Final Thoughts
Cafcass can feel daunting, but their role is not to judge you — it is to protect your child’s wellbeing and help the court make informed decisions.
Approaching Cafcass with openness, honesty, and a child-focused mindset gives you the best chance of being understood and heard.
If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, learning what to expect is a powerful first step, here at the Support Path we can support and guide you through this process.
Lets walk this path together….
