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Cafcass Support

Understanding Your Cafcass Safeguarding Letter

A safeguarding letter is a short report provided to the court before the first hearing. It usually summarises checks, the parties’ safeguarding concerns and Cafcass advice based on the information then available. It is not a final judgment and the court decides what happens next.

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We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours.

Step-by-step

  1. Check the identifying detailsConfirm names, dates, case number and who was spoken to.
  2. Read the safeguarding checks sectionNote what information was available and whether any check remained outstanding.
  3. Compare the parties’ concernsDistinguish allegations or reported concerns from findings made by a court.
  4. Understand the analysisIdentify the welfare or safety issues Cafcass considers relevant at this early stage.
  5. Read the recommendationsNote any proposed interim arrangements, further assessment, services or directions.
  6. Identify factual inaccuraciesPrepare a short list of demonstrable errors with the correct fact and any reliable source.
  7. Prepare for the hearingDecide what you agree with, what you dispute and the child-focused order or direction you request.

What you will need

  • Safeguarding letter
  • Application and response
  • Evidence of any clear factual correction
  • Short note of agreed points
  • Short note of disputed points
  • Practical proposals for the first hearing

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Treating reported allegations as court findings
  • Responding with a long emotional rebuttal
  • Confusing disagreement with a recommendation and a factual error
  • Sending private documents without checking directions
  • Assuming the court must follow the recommendation

Practical paid support

How I can help

Safeguarding Letter Walkthrough

£60 per hour

Practical support identifying the letter’s structure, key points, factual corrections and preparation tasks for the hearing.

Included

  • Structured walkthrough
  • Factual correction list
  • Issue and action checklist
  • Links to hearing preparation

Not included

  • Rewriting Cafcass’s report
  • Legal opinion on disputed evidence
  • Guaranteeing a recommendation will change
Book a Free 30-Minute ConsultationSend an Email Enquiry

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

When is the safeguarding letter sent?

Cafcass states it aims to provide the letter to the court at least three days before the first hearing, although circumstances can vary.

Can I correct an error?

Clear factual inaccuracies can be identified and raised appropriately. The route may depend on timing and court directions.

Official sources

Guidance checked: 1 November 2026. Always check the latest court order and official source before acting.

Important: This page gives general procedural information for England and Wales. The Everyday McKenzie Friend provides independent, non-regulated practical support and is not a solicitor or barrister. I do not provide regulated legal advice, conduct litigation or have an automatic right to address the court. Court decisions and permission for McKenzie Friend assistance remain matters for the court.