About your referral
Read on for answers to our most commonly asked questions about your referral. If your question is not answered here, or you have difficulty accessing this page, please do get in touch.
This course is called Families Together. The court or your Family Court Advisor believes it will help you and your co-parent work together better. It gives you tools to reduce conflict and help your children cope during separation. Our aim is to support you and your children through this time, and help you find ways to put your children's needs first.
You were asked to do this course by either your Family Court Advisor (FCA) or by the Magistrate at the Family Court. Families Together is an independent charity delivering this support on behalf of CAFCASS and the courts. No matter who referred you, the expectation is that you complete the whole course.
We can only start working with you once we receive your official referral. If you've just been to court, it might take a little time for us to get the request. If you haven't heard from us after 14 days since your court hearing, please contact CAFCASS or your Family Court Advisor (FCA).
It's still highly recommended that you attend the course as soon as possible. If you don't attend now, the court will be told. You may then be ordered to complete it later, so it's a good idea to do it at the first opportunity. It will show the court you are taking steps to help your children.
If the court has ordered you to do it, then yes, it is required. If your Family Court Advisor recommended it, it's not a direct order, but it's very strongly advised that you complete it. We're here to help you understand why it's beneficial for your family.
You've been asked to do the course again to help you think about new tools and information for your current family situation. This decision is made by your Family Court Advisor or the Magistrate, and it is a requirement.
This course is for all parents involved. It will give you a chance to think about your own strategies and learn new ways to cope. You'll also learn from other parents in similar situations. Both parents are asked to attend so you can both improve your co-parenting skills.
The Planning Together course is free for you. You can only access the course if you are referred by the court or a Family Court Advisor.
If you don't agree with being referred, please contact CAFCASS at [email protected] or speak to your assigned Family Court Advisor (FCA), if you have one.