Supervised Access Program

What is Supervised Access?

When parents separate, visits or exchanges can be difficult for the whole family. Problems sometimes arise between parents or other family members at the time children are exchanged. At other times, there may be concerns about the visits themselves. The Supervised Access Program offers families a way to cope with some of these problems.

  • The Supervised Access Program provides a safe, child-focused, neutral setting where visits or exchanges can take place under the supervision of trained staff.
  • The program is operated out of three centers located in the communities of Atikokan, Emo and Fort Frances.
  • The Supervised Access Program does not enforce court orders. The program facilitates conditions of court orders.

Supervised Visits

On-site visits provide an opportunity for non-custodial parents to spend time with their children.

  • Parent's arrival and departure times are staggered so that the parties do not come in contact with each other.
  • Visits are fully supervised by staff to ensure that children are safe and comfortable.
  • Staff encourage positive parent/child interaction and will intervene only if required

Supervised Exchanges

Exchanges provide non-confrontational transfer of children between parents for an off-site visit or outing for a specified amount of time and then returned again through the program.

Who Can Make a Referral?

Although many families are court-ordered to use the service self-referrals are welcome. Any individual or family member wishing information is encouraged to call.

  • Voluntary referrals are only accepted when both parties consent to service being provided. Lawyers for the parties and/or the Office of the Children's Lawyer may also make a request for service.
  • Whether voluntary or court-ordered participants are responsible to make initial contact with the Supervised Access Coordinator.

For further information please contact one of our offices.

For more information on Supervised Access Programs in Ontario, please click on the following link:

http://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/family/supaccess.asp 

 

Please click on the Orange Ribbon to visit the Supervised Visitation Network Website for more information: