Understanding The Role of Child Contact Centres

The process usually involves a referral form, an initial assessment, and agreement of ground rules before sessions begin. Application forms must be submitted 10 days in advance at most centres. Once a referral is accepted, the centre completes a risk assessment to check whether they can safely meet the family’s needs – in some cases they may decline or suggest a different level of service.

Preliminary visits are required for children and parents before actual contact visits begin. These familiarise everyone with the secure environment and explain what to expect. Parents should bring court orders, written agreements and relevant contact details so the centre has a clear picture of expectations and any restrictions, including attendance dates. If you are unsure how to word contact proposals or there are disputed allegations, seek early legal assistance from a family law specialist.

Charges for child contact centres vary in England & Wales depending on whether the service is charitable or private and on the level of supervision required. There is no national tariff, so costs should always be checked with the chosen centre in advance. As a guide, some centres publish the following rates:

Families should also ask about additional charges for written reports, room hire, late cancellations, or extended sessions. In some cases, local authority funding may contribute to costs where criteria are met. A family law specialist can explain whether this is a suitable option and what resources are available in a particular case

Use of a contact centre is usually seen as a temporary measure, not a more permanent arrangement. Many centres operate as short-term stepping stones to help families rebuild relationships. The aim is to help children and non-resident parents rebuild trusting, positive family time so contact can safely move to less restrictive settings – supported or unsupervised contact in the community, overnight stays, or more flexible direct arrangements agreed between parents.

Reviews may be built into court orders to consider progress and feedback from the centre. Where concerns increase or contact is not working safely even with supervision, the court may reconsider the contact plan and, rarely, suspend contact. Once the centre is no longer required, families may move to arrangements that work independently. Think of contact centres as part of a wider support system – including mediation, parenting programmes and counselling – aimed at reducing conflict and keeping children at the centre of decisions.

Kabir Family Law offers a free initial telephone consultation to allow you to understand your options where restrictions are placed on your contact with your child.

We deal with all aspects of family law so reach out to us today on 0330 094 5880 to arrange your free, no‑obligation consultation or book a time that suits you using our online appointment system.   Our family lawyers in Cardiff as well across Nottingham, Newcastle, Coventry, Oxford, Manchester, Northampton, York & London can advise you on any family law issues.

Do I have to use a child contact centre if the other parent asks me to?

There is no automatic legal duty to use a centre simply because the other parent suggests it. However, the Family Court can direct use of a centre if it considers this necessary for the child’s welfare under the Children Act 1989. If you believe a centre is unnecessary or too restrictive, seek legal assistance from a family law specialist. Voluntary use can sometimes help build confidence and avoid court, particularly if parties agree to try it as a first step.

How long will my child have to use a contact centre?

There is no fixed national time limit. Duration depends on the child’s needs, the level of risk, and how well contact progresses. Courts and professionals typically see centres as a short to medium-term step, subject to regular reviews. Parents should keep records of how sessions are going and share concerns or positive developments at reviews or court hearings.

Will my child be forced to go if they are reluctant?

The child’s welfare is the court’s paramount consideration. Their wishes and feelings should be taken into account in a way appropriate for their age and understanding. If a child is very reluctant, this should be discussed with CAFCASS, the contact centre staff and, where relevant, the court. Professional help such as child-focused counselling may be suggested to understand the reasons and explore whether safe contact can be built up gradually.

Can contact centre staff give evidence to the Family Court?

In supervised contact cases, some centres provide written observations or attendance records that the court may request. Staff are generally expected to remain impartial and provide factual information rather than opinions about which parent a child should live with. Check with the specific centre at the outset about what records are kept, how long they are stored, and in what circumstances they may be shared with CAFCASS or the court.

What if there are allegations of domestic abuse – is a contact centre still appropriate?

Where there are allegations or findings of domestic abuse, the court and CAFCASS will carefully consider risk. Supervised contact at a centre may be identified as the safest available option, or the court may decide contact should not take place at all. Centres can help by providing separate arrival and departure times, separate waiting areas, and fully supervised sessions. Anyone affected by domestic abuse should seek specialist support and legal assistance from a family law specialist so that safety planning for both the parent and the child is prioritised in any contact decisions.