Resource · Court Process

What Is a Section 7 Report

and how does it affect your case?

Understanding the most influential document in children cases.

A Section 7 report is a report prepared by CAFCASS (or sometimes a local authority) at the direction of the family court in proceedings involving children. It is one of the most influential documents in any children case and the court will take its recommendations seriously.

When is a Section 7 report ordered?

The court orders a Section 7 report when there are welfare concerns or complex issues that require a more detailed investigation than the initial safeguarding check provides. It may be ordered at the first hearing or at a subsequent directions hearing.

What does the process involve?

  • Interviews with both parents
  • Meetings with the children (age and circumstances dependent)
  • Consultation with relevant professionals, school, GP, social services
  • Analysis of all information gathered
  • Recommendations to the court on arrangements for the children

How to approach your CAFCASS interviews

Be honest, focused on the children and constructive. Do not use the opportunity to catalogue your complaints about the other parent, CAFCASS officers are experienced at recognising when adult conflict is being presented as child welfare concerns. Focus on what your children need and how you can provide it.

What a Section 7 assessment involves

A Section 7 assessment typically involves the CAFCASS officer meeting with both parents separately, meeting with the children, and potentially visiting the homes of both parents. They may also speak to other professionals involved with the family and review records from children's services and the police. The assessment is holistic and tries to form a rounded view of both parents, the children's relationships, their wishes and feelings, and any risks.

How to prepare for a Section 7 assessment

  • Have a tidy, child-friendly home for any home visit
  • Be on time and prepared for meetings
  • Do not brief your children on what to say
  • Focus on your children's needs, routines, and relationships
  • Be honest about difficulties, framing them in terms of impact on the children

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Section 7 report?
A Section 7 report is a welfare report prepared by CAFCASS or a local authority social worker, ordered by the court under Section 7 of the Children Act 1989. It assesses the arrangements for a child and makes recommendations to the court about what is in the child's best interests.
When does the court order a Section 7 report?
The court will order a Section 7 report when it needs more information about the children's welfare before making a decision. This is common in contested child arrangements cases, cases involving allegations of domestic abuse or parental alienation, and where the children's wishes need to be properly assessed.
How long does a Section 7 report take?
Typically 12 to 16 weeks from the date of the court order, though delays are common. The court usually lists the next hearing several months after directing the report.
Can I challenge the findings of a Section 7 report?
Yes. You can file a written response to the report and cross-examine the CAFCASS officer at the final hearing. If you believe the report is seriously flawed, you can apply to the court for permission to instruct an independent social worker.
Will the CAFCASS officer visit my home?
Not always, but home visits are common, particularly where there are questions about the suitability of a parent's home for the children.
What will CAFCASS ask me about?
Typical topics include your relationship with your children, your daily routine with them, your children's school and social life, your relationship with the other parent, your proposals for arrangements, and your willingness to support the children's relationship with the other parent.
What happens if I disagree with the Section 7 recommendations?
File a clear, specific written response to the report before the hearing, setting out which recommendations you disagree with and why. The judge is not bound by the recommendations and will make their own decision based on all the evidence.

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