A safe, neutral venue where a child can spend time with a parent or family member they don't live with, often used while arrangements are being agreed or assessed.
In Plain English
A safe and neutral place where a child can spend time with a parent or family member they don't live with. These are often used as a temporary step while long-term arrangements are being decided.
This content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
A "gap" is a common assumption people hold going into family court, set against what the court actually does. The bold line below is the assumption — not a fact. The reality underneath is what the court typically observes.
Gap #318
The assumption
Holding out for my own preferred contact centre, even without a clear reason, is reasonable caution.
The reality
Insisting on a less practical option over a more sensible one, with no coherent explanation for the choice, can be read by the court as obstruction rather than legitimate caution, and can work against the parent making that choice.
Gap #466
The assumption
(Domestic Abuse Findings) How I speak to solicitors, Cafcass or contact centre staff has nothing to do with contact.
The reality
Where domestic abuse has been found, PD12J paragraph 37 asks the court to consider how the parent is likely to behave during contact and whether they are using the process to continue abuse. Abusive emails, swearing at staff and threatening language are evidence the court can use to answer those questions. In a recent appeal, this conduct was a central reason contact stayed supervised.
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