CONTACT CENTRE GUIDELINES

We ask everyone using the centre to follow these simple guidelines during their visit to the centre.

We reserve the right to refuse entrance to anyone we feel is unable to comply with the guidelines shown below.

Arrival

• Children are your responsibility when you are at the centre, because of this the person bringing the child to the centre must wait until the person having contact arrives. If someone other that you will collect the child at the end of the contact visit please inform a staff member.

• Arrangements can be where the parties using the centre do not wish to meet.

Visit

• The centre has toys and games for your use but you are welcome to bring your own toys and play materials if you wish.  When your child has finished playing with the toy or game we request that you ensure the area is tidy and ready for another family to use.

PLEASE NOTE: Please do not bring toy guns or other toys of an aggressive nature, as these are not permitted in the centre. Likewise for safety reasons balls are only permitted at the centre’s discretion.

• Please use the area provided for drinks and snacks. We respectfully request that sweets and drinks you have brought for your child be consumed in this area.

• You are responsible for any property you or your child may bring to the centre.

• The building has a no smoking policy. We request you observe this policy in all areas of the contact centre including the toilet area.

• Consumption of alcohol is prohibited throughout the centre.

• The contact centre does not permit any form of discipline involving fear threat or humiliation during your visits. Likewise, we dot not permit any form of physical punishment being used. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in the place being withdrawn immediately.

• Abusive, aggressive or threatening behaviour will not be tolerated and those involved will be asked to leave and refused further use of the centre.

• Video or still photography is not allowed within the child contact centre nor is any form of recording equipment. Anyone found to be using this equipment will be refused further use of the centre.

• Mobile phones must be switched off before entering the child contact centre and are not to be used during the visit

• Please do not ask centre staff to pass messages (written or verbal) between yourself and the other party. It is unacceptable to give letters or notes intended for your former partner to your child during the contact visit. All communication between parties must be through appropriate channels.

End of visit

• When the visit ends the adult having contact is required to stay in the contact centre until the child has left the building.

Our concern is for the children. Every effort is made to maintain a pleasant atmosphere, but we reserve the right to ask anyone to leave if their conduct is such that it disturbs other centre users or the smooth running of the centre.

We accept that the contact situation is sometimes very difficult and we hope these guidelines will make the process easier. If you are unsure about anything, please contact us. We are pleased to have parents visit the centre prior to any contact being arranged. Please contact us to arrange a visit.

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