This page explains Cafcass support and Section 7 preparation for parents involved in family court proceedings in England and Wales.
Cafcass Can Feel Overwhelming — Preparation Makes a Difference
Speaking to Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) is often one of the most stressful stages of a family court case.
Our Cafcass support and Section 7 preparation focuses on calm, practical guidance before and after Cafcass involvement.
Parents are asked sensitive questions, sometimes without knowing:
- what Cafcass is assessing
- how answers may be summarised
- how the court may later read the safeguarding letter
I support parents before and after Cafcass involvement so they feel prepared, steady, and clear — without over-explaining, becoming defensive, or unintentionally harming their case.
This support focuses on preparation and understanding, not legal advice.
How I Support You With Cafcass
I work with parents to help them approach Cafcass in a calm, child-focused way.
Support may include:
- explaining how Cafcass fits into the court process
- helping you organise key points and concerns
- mock interview / role-play style preparation
- guidance on tone, wording, and focus
- managing stress and anxiety before contact
- debriefing after the call or meeting
- preparing for the next court stage
This service is practical, structured, and tailored to your situation.
Cafcass Safeguarding Call (Early Stage)
The safeguarding call usually takes place shortly after a court application is made.
It commonly covers:
- background to the separation
- any allegations or concerns
- police or social services involvement
- current contact arrangements
- immediate safeguarding issues
How I Help Before the Call
- go through likely areas of questioning
- identify what is relevant — and what is not
- practise answering calmly and clearly
- reduce over-explaining or defensive responses
- keep the focus on the child’s welfare
Many parents struggle here because the call feels pressured and unfamiliar. Preparation helps you stay grounded.
Support During Cafcass Interviews or Meetings
In some cases, Cafcass may allow a McKenzie Friend to be present, with the parent’s consent and Cafcass agreement.
This is not automatic and is decided on a case-by-case basis.
Where permission is granted, my role is:
- quiet, non-speaking support
- helping you stay calm and focused
- supporting you if you feel overwhelmed
- nem answering questions or influencing the process
After the Call: Understanding What Comes Next
Many parents feel anxious after speaking to Cafcass.
I can help you:
- understand what the safeguarding letter may focus on
- identify issues to raise at the first hearing
- prepare calmly for the next court step
- structure a clear position if needed
Support does not end when the call finishes.
Section 7 Report Support
If the court orders a Section 7 report, Cafcass will look in more detail at the child’s situation.
This may involve:
- further discussions with parents
- speaking to the child (depending on age)
- reviewing background information
How I Support Section 7 Preparation
- explaining what a Section 7 report is for
- preparing you for conversations with Cafcass
- helping you stay balanced and child-focused
- supporting you before hearings following the report
How This Support Differs From Legal Representation
This support is not a replacement for a solicitor — it serves a different purpose.
| Preparation support | Typical solicitor |
|---|---|
| Focus on preparation and communication | Focus on legal advice |
| Mock interview / role-play | No interview preparation |
| Fixed or agreed cost | Hourly billing |
| Emotional and practical support | Legal advice only |
| Support before and after Cafcass | Usually limited to hearings |
Fees (Clear & Agreed in Advance)
Cafcass-related support is usually offered as:
- one-off preparation sessionsvagy
- short support packages, depending on what you need
Where appropriate, fees are fixed or agreed in advance, with no hidden charges.
A free initial conversation is always available to check whether support is appropriate.
Related Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a McKenzie Friend attend a Cafcass interview?
In some cases, Cafcass may allow this, with the parent’s consent and Cafcass agreement. It is not automatic.
Do you speak to Cafcass on my behalf?
No. My role is preparation and support, not representation.
Is this legal advice?
No. I provide practical and emotional support, not legal advice.
What if Cafcass has already contacted me?
Support can still help, both to debrief and to prepare for the next stage.
Do solicitors attend Cafcass interviews?
No. Parents usually attend alone. Preparation is therefore key.
Official Cafcass Information
For official guidance, visit:
👉 CAFCASS – Official guidance on safeguarding and Section 7 reports
Get Calm, Practical Support
If Cafcass involvement is approaching — or has already happened — you don’t have to navigate it alone.
📞 07599 322717
📧 info@everymanjustice.co.uk
👉 Contact page