Every family starts with a separate intake and risk assessment, so the right safety measures are in place before the first visit or changeover. Safe Steps Children’s Contact Services completes intake for families across Perth and Western Australia, with each parent assessed separately.
Why intake comes first
Before any visit or changeover is booked, Safe Steps completes a thorough intake and risk assessment with each parent or carer. This step makes sure the right safety measures are in place from the first session and that the service we offer actually suits the child and family.
The intake process
- Referral received. A referral comes from a family lawyer, independent children’s lawyer, case manager, the Department of Communities, another service, or a parent. We acknowledge referrals within 2 business days.
- Separate initial contact. Our team contacts each parent separately to understand the situation and explain the next steps.
- Intake and risk assessment. Each parent completes intake separately, including a risk assessment. Parents never need to attend intake together.
- Decision. We confirm a decision within 5 business days of receiving a complete referral.
- Planning. We agree times, locations and safety arrangements, and confirm everything in a written service agreement.
What the risk assessment considers
- any court orders, parenting plans, protection orders or conditions
- safety concerns raised by either parent, the referrer or other services
- the child’s age, needs and relationship with the visiting parent
- how long it has been since the child and parent last had contact
- practical matters such as location, travel and timing
What you may be asked to provide
- contact details for you and any referrer
- copies of relevant court orders, parenting plans or protection orders
- information about the child, including any health, learning or behavioural needs
- your availability for sessions
Which service suits your family?
The assessment helps work out the right fit: supervised contact visits where supervision is needed during the visit, supervised changeovers where only the handover needs managing, off-site visits or online supervised contact where suitable. If court reports will be needed, let us know at referral.
Safety beyond intake
Risk isn’t assessed once and forgotten. Staggered arrivals, separate handovers and ongoing review continue for as long as your family uses the service. All Safe Steps workers hold a current Working With Children Check and National Police Clearance, and our operations align with the national Children’s Contact Services: Guiding Principles Framework for Good Practice.
Frequently asked questions
Do both parents have to do intake?
Yes. Each parent or carer completes intake separately. This keeps the process safe and makes sure we understand each person’s situation.
Will the other parent see what I say at intake?
Intake is completed separately and handled confidentially in line with our policies, the law and any court orders. Talk to us if you have specific safety concerns about information sharing.
How long does intake take?
It depends on how quickly each parent completes their intake and provides any documents. We confirm a decision within 5 business days of a complete referral.
What if circumstances change after services start?
Tell us as soon as possible. Risk is reviewed on an ongoing basis, and arrangements can be changed if needed to keep the child safe.
Start a referral
Family lawyers, independent children’s lawyers, case managers, the Department of Communities, community organisations and parents themselves can refer to Safe Steps. Your initial enquiry is free.
Make a referral online · Contact us · info@safestepsccs.com.au · 0475 201 348
Related services
- Supervised contact visits
- Supervised changeovers
- Off-site supervised visits
- Online supervised contact
- Court reports
- Guide: children’s contact services in Perth
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice.