St Albans Contact Centre

When family life is turned upside down through separation, finding a way to maintain parenting can be a huge problem, particularly as sometimes, for a variety of reasons, the parents are unable to agree that the non-resident parent can see the children independently; this is frequently against the background of a loss of trust. In such circumstances, the non-resident parent is faced with the challenge of maintaining a relationship with their children and finding a safe, neutral environment to see them.

This is where St Albans Child Contact Centre (SACC) steps in to support families. We were set up by St Albans Cathedral Mothers’ Union 14 years ago. We are accredited and supported by the National Association of Child Contact Centres (NACC), which is the leading UK charity in the field of child contact. The mission of NACC is to ensure that “parenting doesn’t end when relationships do” and the work of the SACC is committed to that mission. We provide a place where the non-resident parent and children can regularly meet.

It is run exclusively by volunteers, all of whom undergo an enhanced DBS and complete a full training programme, including an annual Safeguarding Course.

What do we do? • We offer a free service. • We put the children first – their needs are paramount. • We are impartial to each family’s situation and confidentiality is essential. • We provide a variety of toys/games for all ages, including an Arts & Crafts table for parents to engage and bond with their children. • We supply free refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere.

Jenny Mackenzie