If you’re separating and wondering when CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) might speak directly to your child, you’re not alone. Many parents want to know how age, maturity, and circumstances affect this process.

How Does CAFCASS Decide When to Interview a Child?

• Age and Maturity:
  There’s no fixed age. CAFCASS considers both the child’s age and their ability to understand and express their wishes. Some children as young as 5 or 6 may be spoken to, but the focus is on whether the child can meaningfully contribute to the process.
  
  

• Weight Given to Wishes:
  The importance placed on a child’s views varies. Judges will consider the child’s age, maturity, and relevance to the case. Older children’s wishes may carry more weight, but every situation is different.
  
  

• Coaching or Pressure:
  CAFCASS is alert to signs that a child may have been coached or pressured by a parent. They look for genuine, independent views and will note any concerns about undue influence.

How and Where Are Children Interviewed?

• Neutral Settings:
  CAFCASS can interview a child without parents present. It’s common for interviews to take place at school, which is seen as a neutral and comfortable environment for the child.
  
  

• Away from Parents:
  Speaking to children away from their parents helps CAFCASS get an honest sense of their wishes and feelings, free from pressure.

What Should Parents Know?

• You cannot insist on being present during the interview.

• The process is designed to protect the child’s wellbeing and ensure their voice is heard.

• The court will decide how much weight to give your child’s views, based on all the circumstances.

In Summary

CAFCASS interviews children when they are mature enough to share their views, not at a set age. The process is flexible and focused on the child’s best interests. Interviews are usually held in neutral settings, away from parents, to ensure honesty and comfort.

If you have questions about how CAFCASS might speak to your child, or what to expect, you can ask for more details or upload documents for further explanation.