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Capitol Family Mediation Greenwich - How CAFCASS Supports Families
The Role of Cafcass in Family Court Proceedings in Greenwich
The Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) plays a vital, independent role in any family court case concerning children in the London Borough of Greenwich. Their primary function is to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and to ensure that the child’s voice is heard by the court.
Cafcass does not represent the parents; it advises the court on what is in the child’s best interests according to the Children Act 1989.
Speak to Capitol Family Mediation on 0208 719 0001 today.
Cafcass's Responsibilities in Private Law Cases
In “Private Law” cases—where parents or private individuals (like those in Greenwich) apply for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) or Specific Issue Order—Cafcass officers perform two main duties:
Initial Safeguarding Checks (The “Safeguarding Letter”) This is the first action Cafcass takes after a CAO application is filed with the court. It must be completed before the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA).
Police Checks: Cafcass checks records with the Metropolitan Police to see if either parent has a history of domestic abuse, violence, or concerning behaviour.
Local Authority Checks: They check with the Greenwich Local Authority (Social Services) to see if the family has been subject to any previous child protection investigations or involvement.
Telephone Interviews: A Cafcass officer will speak to both parents separately over the phone to understand their application, hear any welfare concerns they have about the child, and check for any immediate risks to the child’s safety.
Report to Court: The officer summarises these findings and any immediate safety concerns in a short report (often called the Safeguarding Letter), which is then provided to the court and both parties three days before the first hearing.
Full Welfare Investigations (The “Section 7 Report”)
If safety concerns remain or if the parents are unable to agree on arrangements at the first hearing, the Judge may ask Cafcass to conduct a more detailed investigation and prepare a Section 7 Report.
Speaking to the Child: The officer will meet the child to ascertain their wishes and feelings (considered in light of their age and understanding).
Observations: The officer may visit the homes of one or both parents in Greenwich to observe the child’s living environment and the relationship dynamics.
Liaison: They may speak to teachers at the child’s Greenwich school, doctors, or other professionals involved in the child’s life.
Recommendations: The Section 7 Report concludes with the Cafcass officer’s assessment and recommendations for the Judge on what Child Arrangements Order would best promote the child’s welfare.8 The court often places significant weight on these recommendations.
Family Court Serving the Greenwich Area
The London Borough of Greenwich is typically served by the main Family Court centre in East London.
Court Name: East London Family Court
Address: 6th and 7th Floor, 11 Westferry Circus (Entrance in Columbus Courtyard), London, E14 4HD
Family Appointments: 0203 197 2806
General Enquiries: 0203 197 2886
Public Phone (General): 0300 123 5577
Handles Cases: Child Arrangements Orders, divorce, financial matters, and domestic abuse applications for the Greenwich area.
Cafcass National Contact: 0300 456 4000 (for general Cafcass enquiries)
Capitol Family Mediation. Family and Civil Mediation for Families and Businesses
Meetings Are Strictly by Appointment Only. Our Location is not staffed
Mediation and urgent MIAM appointments can be arranged online . Speak to Capitol Mediation
Our Greenwich Hub – Find us at
12 Lambarde Square, Greenwich, SE10 9GB
Call our team to book your mediation on 0208 719 0001
Capitol Family Mediation for Families in Greenwich
Capitol Mediation Greenwich supports individuals and families across Greenwich, where family law matters are typically handled by the East London Family Court. The court deals with issues including Child Arrangements Orders, divorce, financial matters, and domestic abuse applications.
Mediation provides a structured and impartial process to resolve disputes without relying solely on court intervention. It helps reduce conflict, encourages open communication, and often provides a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to litigation.
Capitol Mediation Greenwich guides clients through the mediation process with clarity and professionalism, helping families reach practical and workable agreements.
If you need a MIAM for family court find out more here.
Call our team on 0208 719 0001 to find out more about mediation support in Greenwich.