Whittlesea Family Services – Supervised Contact Services

Our Services

Whittlesea Family Services provides high-quality child contact services, including:

• Supervised visitation facilitation

• Intake sessions

• Factual observational reports

• Supervised handovers (pick-up/drop-off)

• Support with communication apps for separated parents

• Home child safety inspections/reports

All staff hold current Police Checks, Working with Children Cards, and First Aid certificates. They possess expertise in child development, with backgrounds in Child Protection, Welfare, Social Work, Teaching, or Psychology. Services are available in Melbourne Metropolitan, Doreen and surrounds.

Operating Procedures

Intake Session

Before the first supervised visit, a 20-30 minute intake session is conducted with the child(ren) and their primary caregiver. This helps the child become familiar with the supervisor and allows parents to share important care details, such as medical conditions, allergies, and special needs. The intake session takes place at the same venue as the first supervised visit.

Handovers

To minimize conflict, drop-off and pick-up times are staggered. Parents will receive instructions via email. If a child is distressed and unable to settle, the primary caregiver will be contacted.

Supervision

Supervised visits take place at a mutually agreed venue, typically close to the child’s home. If no agreement is reached, the agency will determine the location. Supervisors always remain within sight and earshot of the child and the visiting parent, intervening only if the child’s safety or well-being is at risk.

For babies and toddlers, the primary caregiver must provide snacks, drinks, and nappy-changing supplies. The visiting parent will take over this responsibility after 5-6 sessions. Supervisors accompany children during toileting as per court orders.

Communication & Boundaries

Parents are encouraged to use communication tools such as apps or a contact book for child-related matters. Photos and videos may be taken unless restricted by court orders but must not be shared on social media without mutual agreement.

Initially, visits occur in indoor venues. If progressing well, outings to parks and cultural sites may be approved. Extended family members may attend after 5-6 sessions, subject to court orders and parental agreement.

Gifts & Activities

Gifts should be reasonable and given freely, meaning children may take them home. However, gift giving is only encouraged during celebrations such as birthdays or religious observances. These gifts should be given towards the end of the session so the focus is not on the gift but rather quality time spent with the child. Visiting parents are encouraged to bring activities such as books or board games that are child age appropriate to their interests.

Reporting & Confidentiality

Supervisors take factual observational notes, which may be used for legal reports. Reports can be requested by solicitors or parents, requiring at least three weeks' notice. Confidentiality is maintained except in cases of mandatory reporting obligations or legal subpoenas.

Cancellations & Fees

Cancellations within 24 hours require a $60 fee unless a medical certificate is provided. Missed sessions must be rescheduled if canceled.

Suspension or Termination of Supervised Time

Supervised visits may be suspended if they cause distress to the child, if service rules are violated, or if safety concerns arise. Parents will be consulted before termination occurs.

Fees & Payment

• Intake & Startup Fee: $150 (one-time)

• Supervised Visit Fee: $90 per hour (minimum 2-hour session: $180)

• Additional fees apply for supervised handovers and other services.

Service Agreement

Both parents must sign this agreement to ensure a smooth and child-focused process. This includes:

1. Supporting a positive environment for the child.

2. Encouraging healthy parent-child relationships.

3. Arriving on time with necessary items.

4. Respecting staff and following all supervision guidelines.

5. Avoiding derogatory remarks about the other parent.

6. Refraining from recording calls or conversations with staff without permission.

Whittlesea Family Services is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children while maintaining a neutral, professional approach in all supervised contact services.

Please fill out the following below to give your consent.