Harpenden Child Contact Centre
Frequently Asked Questions
To view the answer to a frequently asked question click on the title in one of the boxes below to reveal the answer.
What can I expect to find?
There is a reception area with a volunteer at the desk to register arrivals and departures. There is also a waiting room for resident parents and children. The Contact Hall itself has a large play area equipped with a variety of toys, games and art materials. Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are available throughout the session. There will be four or five volunteers in the hall assisting around twelve children and their non-resident parent. Non-resident parents may not leave the hall until the end of the session unless it has been agreed with us and the resident parent, for example a visit to the park.
Do I meet my ex-partner?
Not if you do not wish to. Let the Centre Team Leader know and separate times of arrival and departure will be arranged.
Do the children and non-resident parent go out of the Centre?
That depends on the individual circumstances and on what has been agreed beforehand by the parents, in writing, or by the Court. However, going out of the Centre at some point is one of the goals we like parents to achieve once contact is progressing well.
Can I bring my present partner?
Only with the consent of all concerned in the arrangement. Unless this is specifically agreed it is in the best interests of the children that your present partner does not come into the Centre.
What are the dates of opening?
Click on the following link to see details about where we are and when we are open.
What if I can’t come on a particular date?
If you find that you are unable to come as arranged, please let us know by calling 07842 167767.
If there is no answer you can leave a message or send a text. If you can, please also try to contact the other parent/carer in advance.
What does it all cost?
Nothing – there is no charge at any stage. However, as less than 30% of our running costs come from public funding, any voluntary donations are always gratefully received.
Do the helpers make reports?
Absolute confidentiality is maintained by the helpers who do not provide reports for the courts. The only exception is if there is a safety issue in relation to a child or volunteers.
What do the helpers do?
The men and women who run the Centre each week are not Social Workers or legal advisers. They are unpaid and impartial volunteers who receive basic and ongoing training. Their role is to facilitate the smooth running of the Centre and to provide a neutral, welcoming and friendly environment for all involved parties.
What happens if I have a complaint?
Most complaints can be dealt with at the time by speaking to the Team Leader. However, if you wish to make a complaint after the session you can contact us by phone or email.
Is there an information leaflet available?
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