CAFCASS publications

Look at the Cafcass web site.


 * Time for Children
 * the archived CAFCASS complaints statistics
 * New (2010) Practice Directions - re. Cafcass

Schedule 2 requirement was introduced by Practice Direction 12b in 2010 (link below) under the so-called Revised Private Law Programme. The Schedule 2 procedure/letter is provided for paragraph 3.9 (e) below. All too often it simply records Mother's allegations as facts and includes recommendations for Fact Finding Hearings (see Terms used in Court page) and Risk Assessments etc. In many cases it is not completed on time and judges are unable to take any decisions in its absence; it is always advisable that fathers chase the process up to avoid a wasted hearing/costs. It will be noted from the paragraph below that it does not involve Cafcass contacting the children. http://www.justice.gov.uk/courts/procedure-rules/family/practice_directions/pd_part_12b

3.9 Before the FHDRA Cafcass shall identify any safety issues by the steps outlined below. Such steps shall be confined to matters of safety. Neither Cafcass nor a Cafcass Officer shall discuss with either party before the FHDRA any matter other than relates to safety. The Parties will not be invited to talk about other issues, for example relating to the substance of applications or replies or about issues concerning matters of welfare or the prospects of resolution. If such issues are raised by either party they will be advised that such matters will be deferred to the FHDRA when there is equality between the parties and full discussion can take place which will also be a time when any safety issues that have been identified also can be taken into account.

(a) In order to inform the court of possible risks of harm to the child in accordance with its safeguarding framework Cafcass will carry out safeguarding enquiries, including checks of local authorities and police, and telephone risk identification interviews with parties.

(b) If risks of harm are identified, Cafcass may invite parties to meet separately with the Cafcass Officer before the FHDRA to clarify any safety issue.

(c) Cafcass shall record and outline any safety issues for the court.

(d) The Cafcass Officer will not initiate contact with the child prior to the FHDRA. If contacted by a child, discussions relating to the issues in the case will be postponed to the day of the hearing or after when the Cafcass officer will have more knowledge of the issues.

(e) At least 3 days before the hearing the Cafcass Officer shall report the outcome of risk identification work to the court by completing the Form at Schedule.2.