25th September 2026
What contact should you get when your child is in care? Can a Social Worker Refuse Contact?
If your child has been taken into care, you are probably wondering whether you still have the right to see them.
The answer is usually yes. In England, the law recognises that maintaining a relationship between a child and their parents is often important for the child’s welfare. Although a social worker can recommend restrictions on contact in some situations, they cannot simply stop contact because they think it is unnecessary or inconvenient.
This guide explains:
Does a Social Worker Have to Arrange Contact Between a Parent and Their Child?
In most cases, yes.
If your child is in the care of a local authority under an Interim Care Order or Care Order, the local authority has a legal duty under section 34 of the Children Act 1989 to promote reasonable contact between a child and their parents unless there is a lawful reason to restrict it.
There is no legal rule stating that parents are entitled to a particular number of visits each week. Instead, the amount and type of contact should be based on the individual child’s welfare.
Contact might include:
Every family’s circumstances are different, and contact should be reviewed regularly rather than remaining the same throughout care proceedings.
Can a Social Worker Refuse Contact?
Sometimes – but only if there are proper legal reasons.
A social worker may recommend reducing or restricting contact where there are genuine concerns that contact could harm the child’s welfare.
Examples include:
A social worker cannot simply refuse contact because:
Any restrictions must be justified by the child’s welfare.
Can the Local Authority Stop Contact Completely?
Usually, no.
If your child is subject to a Care Order or Interim Care Order, the local authority cannot normally stop all contact without asking the Family Court for permission.
There is one important exception.
If there is an urgent safeguarding concern, the local authority can suspend contact for up to seven days while deciding whether to apply to the court.
Longer-term restrictions generally require a court order under section 34 of the Children Act 1989.
What Happens if My Child Refuses to See Me?
Many parents fear that once a child says they do not want contact, it will stop immediately.
In reality, the situation is more complicated.
The child’s wishes and feelings are an important part of any decision, particularly as they get older. However, a child refusing contact does not automatically mean that contact should end.
The social worker should consider questions such as:
Sometimes changing the arrangements can make a significant difference.
For example:
Children’s views should always be taken seriously, but they should also be explored carefully before long-term decisions are made.
How Much Contact Should I Have?
There is no minimum amount of contact set by law.
Some parents see their children several times each week, while others have monthly or indirect contact.
The court and local authority should consider:
If reunification is the long-term plan, more frequent contact may often be appropriate.
Can Contact Increase Over Time?
Yes.
Contact arrangements should not remain static.
If contact is going well, you may be able to request:
Positive engagement, punctual attendance and addressing the concerns identified by the local authority can all help support an increase in contact.
How Can I Challenge a Decision About Contact?
If you believe you are not having enough contact with your child, you do not have to accept the decision without question.
Request a written explanation setting out:
This helps you understand the decision and creates a record if you later need to challenge it.
If care proceedings are ongoing, your solicitor can raise the issue with the court.
The judge can decide whether the current arrangements are appropriate.
If circumstances have changed—for example you have completed treatment, addressed concerns or contact has been positive—you can ask the local authority to review the arrangements.
Where appropriate, parents may ask the Family Court to decide disputes about contact under section 34 of the Children Act 1989.
The court’s decision will always be based on the child’s welfare.
Does the Local Authority Have to Help Contact Take Place?
Yes.
The local authority should make reasonable efforts to ensure contact is meaningful and safe.
This may include:
Parents also have responsibilities. Attending regularly, arriving on time and keeping contact child-focused can help demonstrate commitment and strengthen your case for increased contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a social worker stop me seeing my child?
Only in limited circumstances. If your child is subject to a Care Order or Interim Care Order, the local authority will usually need the court’s permission to stop contact altogether, except where contact is suspended for up to seven days because of an urgent safeguarding concern.
Can my child refuse to see me?
Yes, particularly if they are older and able to express informed views. However, a child’s refusal does not automatically mean contact should end. The reasons for their wishes should be carefully explored.
How often should I see my child in care?
There is no legal minimum. The frequency of contact depends on what is in the child’s best interests and the circumstances of the case.
Can I ask for more contact?
Yes. You can ask the local authority to review the arrangements, speak to your solicitor or ask the Family Court to decide whether contact should be increased.
What law covers contact with a child in care?
Contact between parents and children who are in care is primarily governed by section 34 of the Children Act 1989.
Key Takeaways
If your child has been taken into care, you will usually have the right to maintain reasonable contact. While a social worker can recommend restrictions where there are genuine welfare concerns, they cannot remove contact simply because they think it is unnecessary. If you believe contact has been unfairly limited, you can ask for the decision to be reviewed and, where appropriate, ask the Family Court to decide what contact arrangements are in your child’s best interests.
If you are involved in care proceedings, obtaining specialist legal advice as early as possible can help you understand your rights and ensure your views are properly presented to the court.
We offer competitive and affordable rates as well as fixed fees and legal aid – please contact us on 01274 305380 / 01535 600 973 / reception@williscroft.co.uk