Cafcass part 2

Posted by bertie670 in dealing with the court, dealing with solicitors, dealing with emotions, children, attending court

Yesterday was the childrens interview by Cafcass to help the cafcass officer reach a conclusion re his recommendations to court. I arrived 5 mins early to find they had already started which I was disappointed about. I wanted the children to see I was there in support. This also forms the childrens statement to court, so quite important.

Not sure it made much difference to what the children said however. Feedback from cafcass officer sounded helpful to me - they want to spend equal time with both of us, which is what I am asking for. All I can hope now is that stbx will see sense (big ask that one) and agree to a joint arrangement. I really don't think the court will accept her point of view ie sole residence and contact for me 2 days and 1 night a fortnight.

Now need to sort out living arrangements. Need to get house on the market and we now need to move on. We are in court in 2 weeks for the 'Directions Appointment' after which we should (ought to) be able to move on.

I hadn't realised just how tiring this all is. The stress/anxiety for us all around yesterdays meeting was huge. stbx had promised them McD's on the way home and they both wanted to go with me rather than her. I suspect that may have hurt her somewhat. When we got home they watched tv for a short while and then straight to bed. I was so tired I turned in at 9.30! Unheard of for me.

Anyway away again this weekend staying with some friends and working at another food festival so will at least have a break from it for a couple of days. Daughters comment as I dropped her at school this morning was "Hope I don't have to ring you again like last week because Mummy won't wake up" I told her I hoped not either but I would keep my phone on and with me at all times. I really hope she doesn't have to either. Made me feel pretty bad.

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fitbird said:

September 12, 2008
		Big hug for your stress. It is good that they want to be with you, even if you were not there at the early start they know you are there for them other wise they wouldn't have called you when she was passed out drunk. Hang in there, wiki peeps always here for you. xxx

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crazylady said:

September 12, 2008
		Am dealing with kids through cafcass too, I know what you mean by the mental tiredness.When its your children involved,the worry is like no other. Its great that the children want to see and hear from you so much, I am sure you will win your case. Cl

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lyndamac said:

September 12, 2008
		Bertie670 m tired I feel for you I & others are more dead than alive, if our children are feeling half of what we are feeling how are they going to cope. A lot of the families are so exhausted and will not give in. Caffcass are being taken over by Coram there is a lot of talk on the internet. The Caffcass are just not what they say they are a voice for the children & independent. I have not read all your blog how old are the children ?