I provide timely and good quality Section 7 reports for private law cases. I undertake direct work with children of different ages to understand their wishes and feelings. Parents often contact me directly to arrange this service.
What a Section 7 report is
When parents cannot agree arrangements for their children, the family court may ask for a welfare report under section 7 of the Children Act 1989. The report helps the court understand the child’s circumstances and what would be best for them.
What I consider
My reports are structured around the welfare checklist the court must consider, including:
- The child’s wishes and feelings, in light of their age and understanding
- Their physical, emotional and educational needs
- The likely effect of any change in their circumstances
- Their age, background and any relevant characteristics
- Any harm they have suffered or are at risk of suffering
- How capable each parent is of meeting their needs
Direct work with children
Children are at the heart of a Section 7 report. I meet them in a setting where they feel comfortable and use age-appropriate methods so they can share their views in their own way, without being put under pressure to choose between their parents.