If you’re separating or facing family court, you might hear about both CAFCASS and social services. While they both work to protect children, their roles are quite different. Understanding who does what can help you feel more confident and prepared.
CAFCASS | Social Services |
|---|---|
Works only with families in court | Works with all families in community |
Advices court on child welfare | Protects children from harm |
No power to remove children | Can remove children if neccessary |
Short term involvement | Can provide long term support |
What Is CAFCASS?
CAFCASS stands for Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. Their main job is to advise the family court about what’s best for children when parents can’t agree on arrangements. CAFCASS officers:
Work only with families involved in court proceedings.
Focus on the child’s welfare, wishes, and feelings.
Carry out safeguarding checks and write reports for the judge.
May meet and interview children, observe family interactions, and recommend arrangements.
CAFCASS does not have powers to remove children from home or provide ongoing support outside the court process.
What Are Social Services?
Social services are part of your local council. Their role is much broader and covers all children in the community, not just those in court. Social workers:
Respond to concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing, whether or not there’s a court case.
Can investigate allegations of neglect, abuse, or risk.
Have legal powers to intervene, including removing children from unsafe situations.
Provide ongoing support to families, such as help with housing, parenting, or accessing services.
Social services can be involved before, during, or after court proceedings, and their work is not limited to family law cases.
Key Differences
When Might Both Be Involved?
Sometimes, both CAFCASS and social services are involved in a case. For example, if there are serious safeguarding concerns, social services may investigate and take action, while CAFCASS advises the court on arrangements. They may share information, but their roles remain separate.
In Summary
CAFCASS and social services both work to protect children, but in different ways. CAFCASS supports the court process, while social services protect children in the wider community and have more direct powers. Knowing the difference can help you understand who to speak to and what to expect.
If you’re unsure which service is involved in your case, or what their role is, you can ask questions or upload documents for further explanation
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