Written question asked by Lord Jackson of Peterborough (Conservative) on Wednesday, 29 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 November 2008. It was answered by Baroness Hughes of Stretford (Labour) on Thursday, 6 November 2008 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what steps he is taking to ensure that CAFCASS mediation, investigations and section 7 reports under the auspices of the Children Act 1989 include consideration of the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Each case, CAFCASS is involved in complies with the principles and detail of the Children Act 1989, which states at s1(1) that the child's welfare shall be the paramount consideration. CAFCASS also take account of the welfare checklist in the Act, which requires consideration of the capability not only of the parents, but any other person in relation to whom the court considers the question to be relevant.The Government recognise the important role played by family relatives in the lives of children and young people, including grandparents. The option of sole, shared or occasional care by grandparents is considered routinely by CAFCASS in its assessments, case analyses and case plans. At a national level, CAFCASS liaises with all the major organisations representing grandparents, and takes account of their views when shaping its policies.

Secondary information