Understanding how we can help you
Cafcass social workers help make sure you have safe, caring spaces to talk about how you feel. This helps you feel listened to and respected during the changes that are happening in your family.
In the film, we explain who Cafcass is and why we become involved. We also explain what our social workers do and how they help children understand what is happening in family court proceedings. The film also highlights some of the positive experiences children can have when their voices are heard.
How Cafcass supports you
The animation shows how Cafcass:
- Creates safe spaces for you to talk
- Listens carefully to what matters to you
- Helps you understand what is happening in family court proceedings
- Makes sure you feel heard and respected
The film also explains how Cafcass helps make sure children’s thoughts and feelings are shared safely with the family court.
Who helped make this film?
This film was made with help from young people on the Family Justice Young People’s Board, who have their own experience of being involved in the family court.
You will hear their real voices and see animated characters as they share how court proceedings made them feel and what helped them during that time. By sharing their thoughts, feelings and ideas, they helped create a video that is honest, caring and focused on what children really want to know. Their experiences also help show you that you are not alone, and that it is okay to have questions, worries or mixed feelings.
Other films in the Taking Me Seriously series
This film is part of the Taking Me Seriously video series, which was created to help children feel informed, listened to and supported during family court proceedings. The series includes other videos made especially for children and young people.
You might also find these helpful to watch:
- Meeting your Cafcass worker – a film about what happens when you meet a Cafcass social worker. Watch it here: Watch it here: Meeting your Cafcass worker
- Sharing your wishes and feelings with the court – a film about how your views are shared safely. Watch it here: Watch it here: Sharing recommendations with you
Each video looks at a different part of the family court process and is designed to help things feel clearer and less worrying.
Remember
- You are not in trouble
- You do not have to say anything you are not comfortable with
- There are adults whose job it is to help you
- What you think and feel really matters
If you want to know more, a trusted adult or your Cafcass worker can help answer your questions.