Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Cherished Connections (CC) is a privately operated Supervised Children’s Contact Service. We adhere to industry standards and currently facilitate visits at play centers, playgrounds, libraries, and local parks (Venues may be selected by parents on a case-by-case basis). As an ACCSA-affiliated service, CC complies with national accreditation standards, including administrative guidelines and the national practice framework.

At Cherished Connections (CC), we strive to minimise wait times and provide timely support for families. We do not maintain waiting lists; the commencement timeframe simply depends on completing the required formalities and scheduling your intake.

Our process begins with a complimentary consultation, followed by intake assessments and the signing of a service agreement before supervised visits can commence. Intake assessments are conducted over the phone to understand your circumstances and ensure our services are the right fit for your needs. We will advise you of the outcome within two business days.

No, Children’s Contact Services (CCS) in NSW are independent and not exclusively bound by court orders or parenting agreements. At Cherished Connections (CC), we conduct a comprehensive intake assessment to determine if safe and child-focused arrangements can be made. While we aim to respect the spirit of existing agreements, we may refer you to additional support services if supervised visits cannot be facilitated at that time.

At Cherished Connections (CC), our staff support parents and guardians by providing guidance to help ensure that children experience safe, comfortable, and meaningful visits. A positive experience relies on everyone following the service’s rules and guidelines.

Resident parents are encouraged to be supportive and to help their children look forward to their visit. Afterward, they are welcome to listen if the children wish to share about their time, but should avoid questioning them for details or speaking negatively about what occurred.

Supervised parents are encouraged to come prepared to create an enjoyable experience within the limits set by CC. Children seek love, acceptance, and reassurance; matters such as adult conflict or court proceedings should be kept entirely separate. Above all, the best interests of the child remain our highest priority.

Cherished Connections (CC) provides detailed observational notes from visits, which can be used in Family Law Court proceedings either through a formal report or by subpoenaing the file. Our staff may also be subpoenaed to give evidence. Fees apply for reports, file access, or staff testimony. It is standard practice for Children’s Contact Services (CCS) to share reports and information with all relevant parties.

Cherished Connections (CC) provides professional services on a fee-for-service basis. For our current rates, please visit our homepage or contact us directly for details.

Additional fees may apply for supplementary reports, file notes, or administrative work completed outside standard office hours. As a private service, CC operates on a full‑fee structure, with rates that remain competitive within the industry.

At Cherished Connections (CC), our Family Time Facilitators attend every visit to help create a safe and positive experience for both parents and children. While ensuring safety, facilitators expect the supervised parent to take responsibility for the care and behaviour of their children during the visit.

Facilitators observe all interactions—able to see and hear at all times—and prepare detailed reports after each visit. These reports focus on the supervised parent’s capacity and the child’s responses, rather than serving as legal evidence. Personal or sensitive information should not be shared during visits. After each visit, brief feedback regarding the child’s physical and emotional well‑being, as well as any notable incidents, is provided to the resident parent.

Supervised parents are expected to arrive on time, allowing for any potential delays, and to notify CC if they anticipate being late. Support your child emotionally during farewells and maintain a positive, calm demeanour throughout the visit.

Please avoid discussing court matters or asking probing questions about living arrangements. Refrain from making negative comments about other parties and focus on managing your child’s behaviour in a positive manner. Always follow supervision rules and any instructions from facilitators.

You are welcome to bring healthy snacks and engage only in activities that have been approved. With prior approval from CC—and provided no court orders restrict it—supervised parents may take photos during the visit. Filming or recording visits is not permitted.

Please confirm the meeting location beforehand, use public transport only if pre‑approved, and do not use facilitators to pass messages. If you have any concerns, address them directly with CC Administration outside of visit times.

Resident parents are expected to follow all court orders and ensure these are communicated to Cherished Connections (CC). Please prepare your child for visits and support smooth handovers with the assistance of our facilitators. CC remains neutral at all times and places the child’s welfare as the highest priority.

We kindly ask that you do not question your child about the visit afterwards and avoid asking facilitators personal questions. Recording or photographing visits is not permitted. Please provide any items your child may need, or make arrangements with CC for these to be available for ongoing visits.

Our facilitators are fully briefed on family dynamics prior to each visit, so there is no need to explain the reasons behind supervised visits, as this information is gathered and discussed during the intake assessment process.

Yes, your child’s safety is our top priority. Our Family Time Facilitators are highly qualified professionals who undergo thorough background checks, specialized training, and ongoing development to ensure they adhere to the highest safety standards. They are skilled in vigilant monitoring, immediate intervention if needed, and constant supervision, creating a secure and supportive environment for your child. You can trust that their well-being is meticulously safeguarded throughout every visit.

Activities are planned in advance with input from both parents and children to ensure they are age-appropriate and tailored to each child’s interests. We offer a range of activities suited to different ages and stages, prioritising family satisfaction and memorable experiences. Our service coordinator is available to provide guidance and suggest activities if required.