Virtual Contact
In today’s world, technology offers new ways for families to stay connected — even when meeting face-to-face is not possible.
Vertual Contact
At C4F (Centre for Families), we provide Virtual Contact sessions that allow children and parents to see and speak with each other using secure video platforms.
Virtual contact is flexible, safe, and supportive, making it an invaluable option when distance, health concerns, or personal circumstances make in-person visits difficult.
What Virtual Contact Involves
Virtual contact sessions are arranged and managed by our trained staff. They can be either:
Supervised — where staff remain present throughout the call, monitoring and supporting interactions.
Supported — where staff are nearby to provide assistance if needed but are not observing continuously.
This ensures that, just like our in-person services, the child’s safety and wellbeing remain at the heart of every session.
Why Virtual Contact is Beneficial
Virtual contact gives families the opportunity to:
Overcome distance — ideal for parents who live far away or in different regions.
Stay connected regularly — more frequent calls can help children feel consistently remembered and supported.
Ease transitions — for some families, virtual contact can be a helpful step towards meeting in person.
Children benefit from hearing their parent’s voice, seeing their face, and sharing conversations and activities — all of which help maintain emotional closeness.
How Virtual Sessions Work
Before the call, our staff will ensure that:
- The session is arranged at a suitable time for the child.
- The technology being used is safe, reliable, and age-appropriate.
- Both parent and child know what to expect and feel as comfortable as possible.
During the session:
- Staff will either supervise or support, depending on what has been agreed.
- Parents and children can talk, share updates, and even engage in virtual activities together (such as reading a story or showing drawings).
The focus is always on positive, meaningful interaction that supports the child’s sense of security and connection.
When Virtual Contact is Most Useful
Virtual contact may be the right option when:
- Parents live far apart and regular in-person visits are not practical.
- Travel is difficult due to work commitments, financial pressures, or distance.
- Health or safety concerns prevent face-to-face sessions.
- It is being used as a stepping stone towards direct contact.
It ensures that family ties are maintained, even during times when physical visits cannot happen.
Arranging Virtual Contact
As with other services, virtual contact can be set up through:
- Local authorities or social workers
- CAFCASS and the courts
- Solicitors
- Self-referral from parents
Once agreed, our team will provide guidance on how sessions will run, what technology will be used, and how to prepare to get the most from the experience.
Staying Connected — Wherever You Are
At C4F, we believe that relationships between children and parents should not be lost because of distance or difficulty.
Virtual contact allows families to share smiles, stories, and moments that remind children they are loved and remembered — no matter where they are.
Virtual Contact is about using technology to keep families connected, with the same care, safety, and support you can expect from all our services.
