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What is Supervised Access?
Supervised access is designed to maintain the contact between a
child and a parent when there are concerns for the emotional or physical
well-being of a child. The parenting time occurs in the presence of a third
person who is responsible for observing the interaction of the participants and
ensures the safety of those involved.
Most families who participate in visitation programs have been
ordered by the court to do so. Typically, the Courts will order supervised
access based on issues of protection and safety.
Our visitation program is designed to maintain the contact
between a child and parent during the court process and the time when a parent
is working on identified issues. A court may also order these services when
contact is being reestablished after a prolonged absence; allowing both child
and parent to become reacquainted in an environment that is comfortable for the
child.
How often can a parent visit with their child?
The Court’s order will specify how often a parent can visit with
a child.
Please see Recommendations for Supervised Visits for age appropriate visiting
schedules.
KIDS Services facilitates visits from 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm,
Monday through Friday and 10:00 am to 7:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday (based on
current visitation schedules), including most holidays. Every effort is given
to accommodate previously agreed on visitation times, however, due to
constraints on the facility and number of facilitators, parties may have to be
open to changes in the schedule.
How can Supervised Access help?
Many benefits are possible. Supervised access provides a safe
setting that allows children to develop or renew a healthy relationship with the
visiting parent. It can reduce conflict and make sure no one will be hurt
or unfairly blamed for trying to do harm. It can offer an opportunity to
reinforce good parenting skills. It provides time for trust to develop between
parents and children. During long court processes, it can allow for continued
contact between parents and children.
The procedures and ground rules from the initial intake to the
final visit are designed to support every family member and eliminate risk.
What are the
benefits?
For the child: It allows
the child to maintain a relationship with both parents. They can anticipate the
visits without the stress of worrying about what is going to happen, and enjoy
their time in a safe, comfortable environment without being put in the middle
of their parents’ conflict and/or other problems.
For the visiting parent: Adult participants may have
ambivalent feelings or frustration over program rules. We understand visiting with a child in the presence of a third party can be uncomfortable at
first. Most children and parents quickly adjust to the situation. If there are allegations against them, they can visit without fear of any new
accusations because there is someone present who can verify what happened during
their time together.
It is best if the parent is able to put aside any feelings they
may have towards the system or the other parent and focus on the relationship
with their child.
For the custodial parent: Visitation arrangements are made by the centre,
so you don’t have any contact before, during or after the visit with a person
with whom you are in conflict. In the safe atmosphere provided by the program,
you can allow your child to have contact with the other parent without worry and have time for yourself.
For all parties: It is important parents remain flexible.
Remember, this is about the children and their needs. It may require some sacrifices
on the part of the adults. You probably will not have any difficulty if you can
truly think about if from the child’s point of view.
Supervised
Visitation Brochure
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