Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to meet with my ex-partner?
Parents do not have to meet, arrangements are often made so that parents need not meet at the centre. A volunteer will take children to the other parent.

How much are refreshments?
Snacks and drinks are very reasonably priced. We keep a range of chocolate, crisps, fresh or dried fruit, also tea, coffee, soups, fruit juice and squash.

Can I self-refer?
Yes, please contact the Coordinator.

Can I look around the centre before I come for a contact session?
Yes, we are always pleased to do this. Please ring the Coordinator on 0790 541 7228.

How long can I have contact at the centre?
There is no set time limit on your stay at the contact centre, although we do actively encourage parents to use us as a temporary meeting place with a view to eventually making their own arrangements.

What happens if I cannot make it?
Ring the Coordinator to inform the centre and the Coordinator will contact your ex-partner to inform him or her on your behalf.

Do you have a car park?
Yes, it is on Broomspring Lane, just off Upper Hanover Street.

What is 'supported' contact?
Supported contact takes place in a variety of neutral community venues where there are facilities to enable children to develop and maintain positive relationships with non-resident parents and other family members. Supported contact centres are suitable for non-resident parents and other family members where there is no significant risk to the child or those around the child.
The basic elements of supported contact:

• Impartiality
• Staff and volunteers are available for assistance but there is no close observation, monitoring or evaluation of individual contacts/conversations.
• Several families are usually together in one or a number of rooms.
• Encouragement for families to develop mutual trust and consider more satisfactory family venues.
• Apart from attendance dates and times, no detailed report will be made to a referrer: CAFCASS officers, solicitor or court, unless risk of harm becomes apparent to the child, parent or centre worker.
• An acknowledgement that the arrangement has a limited duration, and will be reviewed after an agreed period of time.

What do I do if my ex-partner continually turns up late? We do not write reports at the centre, however we do keep all times of families attendance for our records and we will be happy to send this to your referrer.

Are there facilities for disabled people?
Please contact the Coordinator to make arrangements e.g. information in larger print, text messaging, dietary requirements etc. The building of an accessible toilet is in progress.

How much does it cost to attend the centre?
We do not charge for the services we provide, but you may find it convenient to bring a small amount of money for the snack bar.

Are my contact details kept confidential?
All contact details are kept strictly confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone without prior permission.

What happens if I move address?
Please let the Coordinator know any changes in your details.

Can I bring some toys for my children to play with?
Yes, we encourage non resident parents to bring suitable toys to the centre, however you will need to take them home with you at the end of the session. These toys or devices may not be electronic as we need to have all electrical or electronic equipment tested before it is used at the centre.

How often is the centre open?
The centre is open every fortnight for two sessions.
morning: 10am till 12noon
afternoon: 2pm till 4pm.

How long do I have to wait before I can start at the centre?
We aim to start new family sessions as soon as possible once the Coordinator has received the referral forms. However, when the centre is at full capacity, you may be put on a short waiting list.