Section 7 Reports

Overview

When the court needs an independent view of what is best for a child, a Section 7 report can be ordered under the Children Act 1989. We know these proceedings can feel stressful and confusing for everyone involved. Our role is to listen carefully, look at the situation fairly, and give the court a clear welfare analysis to help inform decisions about a child's living and contact arrangements.

OBK is instructed by solicitors and directly by courts to complete Section 7 reports where local authority or Cafcass capacity is limited. We meet with both parents, the child where age-appropriate, and key professionals, and provide clear welfare-based recommendations.

Who this service is for

• Family courts requiring independent welfare analysis
• Solicitors in private law Children Act proceedings
• Parents and litigants in person (via their solicitor)

What happens next

From your first enquiry to the final report, we keep things clear, well-paced and easy to follow. Here is what to expect:

1. 1

   Receipt of the order

   Court order or letter of instruction reviewed and scoped.

2. 2

   Meetings with each parent

   Separate sessions to understand each parent's position and proposals.

3. 3

   Direct work with the child

   Age-appropriate work to identify the child's wishes and feelings.

4. 4

   Professional consultation

   Information gathered from school, GP and any other relevant professionals.

5. 5

   Report & recommendations

   Welfare-checklist-based analysis with clear recommendations.

If you are unsure whether this service is right for your situation, get in touch and we will talk it through with you. There is no obligation.

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