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Along with the welfare issues to be considered when thinking about how to meet your child’s needs, parents who are separating will need to decide on practical issues around access.
There are a number of different types of access arrangements, which vary in terms of the quality of contact that occurs. In this article, we will focus on the different types of indirect access and how they work, and we will take a look at direct access in a future blog.
‘Indirect access means any contact a parent has with a child that is not face to face,’ explains a solicitor in the family team. ‘In an increasingly digital age, this can now take many formats.’
Why Have Indirect Access?
Before we consider the different types of indirect access arrangements, you may be wondering why indirect access is being discussed. There are a number of different reasons, for example:
Indirect access is often used as a starting point with the intention that it can build over time to direct access.
Types of Indirect Access
Indirect access can be one-way or mutual.
Video Access and Phone Calls
There is no statutory definition of indirect access, but if it is to be on a mutual basis, then it may include phone calls or video calls, for example via Facetime, Zoom, Skype, telephone calls, or video messages. It could also include communicating over online gaming, which can be an especially useful tool in building rapport with older children.
Access of this nature can be an intermediate step between no direct access and face-to-face access. Video calls can be especially useful when there has been a large gap in direct access occurring, as it allows a child to become visually familiar with their parent again while in the familiar surroundings of their own home. Access of this nature takes a degree of trust that the availing parent will not say anything inappropriate. It may be that this continues to be monitored for a period of time by an appropriate adult.
What Next?
It is usually best to try to agree with your former partner directly the details of how indirect access will occur. If this is to be mutual access, it is important that the contact is sent and responded to in a timely manner. If this is to be via phone call or other means, then prior agreement needs to be reached on what number to phone or what account to contact. It is also important that phones or other devices are well charged with good service, prior to the access occurring.
How We Can Help
If you cannot come to an agreement with your former partner, we can advise you on your options.
For more information or advice on family law matters, readers are encouraged to contact the legal team at southgate solicitors at 02080040065 or [email protected]. It’s important to note that the content of this article is general information and not legal advice, and readers should seek independent expert advice for their specific situations. Our experienced team at southgate solicitors is here to provide expert guidance and support.
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