Supervised contact and supported contact, what’s the difference?

When parents separate, it can sometimes be challenging to come to an agreement about the arrangements for their children. For example, it may be that communication has broken down, or there may be safeguarding risks. 

In such situations, supported or supervised time may be suitable to ensure that each parent can continue their relationship with their children. Depending on the circumstances and if there are safeguarding risks, there are different ways that parents can spend time with their children. 

Supported contact

Supported contact is often suitable where the risk is low and communication has broken down.  

Supported contact can take place in a contact centre, providing a safe and neutral place for parents to see their children. The contact centre can help facilitate a handover where parents do not have to meet one another, if that is required to avoid conflict.

During a supported contact session, volunteers will be present to ensure those attending are comfortable. The volunteers do not supervise or monitor the session, and they do not make direct observations or write reports, other than recording the dates and times of the sessions.

Supervised contact

Supervised contact is more suitable where there are safeguarding risks, such as domestic abuse, drug or alcohol abuse, there are concerns about safety or wellbeing, or ongoing allegations that are being investigated by the court. 

During the session the contact is supervised, usually by a professional, to ensure that the child is safe and their well-being is protected.  The professional can make observations and write contact logs of what happened during the session, which can be used to compile into a report. 

If you are facing difficulties in relation to the arrangements for your child/ren, please get in contact via our contact page or contact Monicka Rai directly here.