Section 7 Report
A Section 7 Assessment is a report prepared by an Independent Social Worker (ISW) which aims to represent the child’s best interests to the court, if two parents are in dispute over arrangements for their child. It will consider the impact of dispute and conflict on the child.
This perspective can only be obtained by meeting and speaking with the child, usually without the parents present. The parents will also be interviewed, and further information may be obtained from third parties, such as the child’s school.
Section 7 Assessment will also determine if further intervention is necessary to protect the children’s welfare
Common questions asked in a Section 7 Interview.
- What is the family’s current living arrangement?
- Are all the members of the family aware of the proceedings and the potential outcomes?
- Are there any concerns or issues within the family that need to be addressed?
- How do parents communicate with each other and with the child?
- Is the child being cared for adequately?
- Is there adequate financial support for the child’s needs?
- What is the child’s relationship like with their parents and siblings?
- Has the child been exposed to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse?
- Does the child have any special needs that require additional attention or assistance?
- How does the child interact with peers and other adults outside their family?
- What educational opportunities are available for the child?
What happens during a Section 7 Assessment?
Section 7 Assessments take around 12-16 weeks to complete and compile all information.
How we can help
At Families Contact, we have more than 20 years’ of experience in dealing with Section 7 Assessments and reports.
In that time, we’ve worked with Family Law Solicitors, private individuals and local authorities across London and beyond. To discover more, get in touch or fill in a referral.
FAQs
Section 7 Assessment take between 12 – 16 weeks to be completed
Yes, you will be allocated an Independent Social Worker.