Preparing for Your Cafcass Safeguarding Call

When fathers apply for a Child Arrangements Order, one of the very first steps in the process is the Cafcass safeguarding call. This telephone interview takes place before the first court hearing (the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment – FHDRA). Its purpose is to help Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) identify any safeguarding issues and provide the court with an early view of the situation.

For many men we support, this call can feel daunting — especially when false allegations or high levels of conflict are involved. At the Falsely Accused Network, we remind men that this is not an interrogation, but rather an opportunity to demonstrate that your focus is firmly on your child’s welfare.

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What to Expect

The Cafcass officer will ask questions about the child’s safety, wellbeing, and living arrangements.

They will also ask about any police or social services involvement.

The officer’s role is neutral — they do not “take sides” but will check all information against official records.

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How to Approach the Call

1. Stay Calm and Factual

Emotions run high in family proceedings, but frustration or anger during this call will not help. Answer questions directly, using facts, dates, and clear examples. Avoid emotive language or personal attacks on the other parent.

2. Keep the Child at the Centre

Frame everything you say around your child’s needs: stability, safety, emotional wellbeing, and maintaining relationships. Demonstrate that you want your child to enjoy a healthy relationship with both parents, unless there are genuine safeguarding risks.

3. Prepare Your Key Points

Before the call, jot down:

What you are asking the court for (contact, shared care, etc.)

Any safeguarding concerns, with brief examples

The positive role you play in your child’s life (school involvement, healthcare, daily care, etc.)

4. Be Honest About Allegations

If there has been police involvement, Cafcass will already know. If allegations are false, calmly state that they are disputed and that you are cooperating fully with any investigation. Avoid going into long explanations — just be clear and measured.

5. Show Willingness to Work Together

Cafcass and the court want to see that you can cooperate. Make it clear that you want to work constructively with professionals and always act in the best interests of your child.

6. Make a Record

After the call, note down what was asked and how you responded. This can be useful later in the process.

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Pitfalls to Avoid

Badmouthing the other parent – keep criticisms focused only on child safety or welfare.

Over-sharing – lengthy personal history can cloud the key issues.

Dishonesty – Cafcass will cross-check with official records.

Sounding vengeful – the focus must always remain on the child.

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Final Thoughts

The Cafcass safeguarding call is an early but important step in child arrangements proceedings. It is not about “winning” the case on the phone — it is about showing that you are calm, child-focused, and willing to cooperate.

At the Falsely Accused Network, we remind men that this call is a chance to set the right tone from the start. Be measured, be honest, and above all, keep your child’s wellbeing at the centre of everything you say.

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📩 Contact Us

Falsely Accused Network

🌐 www.falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk

📧 support@falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk

📞 0204 538 8788