CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) is an organization in England that plays a significant role in the family law system. It was created in 2001 as a result of the implementation of the Children Act 1989.
The primary role of CAFCASS is to represent the best interests of children involved in family court proceedings. When parents separate or divorce and cannot agree on arrangements for their children, the court may become involved to make decisions on matters such as custody, access, and visitation rights. CAFCASS is appointed by the court to provide independent advice and guidance to assist in making informed decisions about the welfare of the children.
CAFCASS officers, known as Family Court Advisors (FCAs), are usually social workers or professionals with relevant experience in child welfare. They gather information and conduct assessments to evaluate the circumstances of the children and their families. This may involve interviewing family members, observing interactions, consulting with professionals involved (such as teachers or doctors), and reviewing relevant documents.
Based on their assessments, FCAs provide recommendations to the court on what they believe is in the best interests of the children. They aim to ensure that the court has a comprehensive understanding of the children’s needs, wishes, and any potential risks or concerns in order to make informed decisions.
Additionally, CAFCASS may also provide support and guidance to parents, helping them to understand and focus on the welfare of their children. They may offer mediation services to assist in resolving disputes and encourage parents to reach mutually agreeable arrangements whenever possible.
It’s important to note that CAFCASS operates within the legal framework and acts independently from both parents. Their primary focus is on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children involved in family court cases.