If you’re going through separation and facing questions about child arrangements, you may worry about the possibility of “no contact” recommendations from CAFCASS. It’s natural to feel anxious, but understanding how and why these decisions are made can help you navigate the process.

Why Might CAFCASS Recommend No Contact?

CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) is tasked with putting children’s welfare first. While courts generally believe children benefit from meaningful relationships with both parents, there are situations where contact may be paused or restricted. Here’s when CAFCASS might recommend no contact:

• Unknown Safety Risks:
  If there are concerns about a child’s safety but not enough information is available, CAFCASS may advise stopping contact until risks are clarified. This often happens at the start of proceedings, especially if allegations have been made but not yet tested.
  
  

• Fact-Finding Needed:
  Sometimes, the risk to the child is unclear—perhaps due to allegations of harm or abuse. In these cases, the court may order a fact-finding hearing. Until the facts are established, CAFCASS may recommend no direct contact to prevent possible harm.
  
  

• Unmitigated Risks or Lack of Cooperation:
  If a parent is not cooperating with assessments, refuses to engage, or does not show insight or willingness to change, CAFCASS may see ongoing risk. No contact may be recommended until the parent demonstrates understanding and takes steps to address concerns.
  
  

• Temporary Measures:
  No contact is rarely permanent. Often, it means no face-to-face meetings for a period, but indirect contact (letters, phone calls) may still be encouraged. The aim is to keep the child’s connection with the parent alive while ensuring safety.

The Court’s Approach: Pro-Contact, But Safety First

Family courts in England and Wales start from the position that children do best when they have a relationship with both parents. However, this is not absolute. If contact puts a child at risk, the court will prioritise safety. CAFCASS recommendations are just one part of the decision-making process; the judge will consider all evidence, including risk assessments and the welfare checklist under the Children Act 1989.

Can Contact Be Restored?

Yes. Contact can be “laddered up”—starting with indirect contact and moving to supervised or unsupervised visits as risks are managed and trust rebuilt. The process is flexible and designed to adapt as circumstances change.

What Should Parents Do?

• Cooperate with CAFCASS and the court process.

• Provide honest information and attend assessments.

• Focus on your child’s needs and safety.

• If contact is paused, use indirect means to stay connected.

In Summary

No contact recommendations are made to protect children, not to punish parents. They are usually temporary and reviewed as more information becomes available. Courts and CAFCASS want children to have safe, meaningful relationships with both parents—unless it’s unsafe to do so.

If you’re facing this situation, stay engaged, seek clarity, and remember that arrangements can change as risks are addressed.