Supervised Access Program
GBSAP staff encourage positive parent and child interaction. During visits, families spend time together
under the supervision of staff who are available at all times to assist with matters such as basic parenting
tasks, age appropriate activities and answering children’s questions. Group visitation creates a busy,
comfortable atmosphere in a setting familiar to most children. Every effort is made to reduce stress for
families new to the program including an on-site tour for the children prior to their first visit.
Visits
There are times when it is not possible for a parent or relative to visit a child without supervision.
These families will use this service for the following reasons:
- difficulty resulting from a separation or divorce
- reunion of parent and child after a lengthy separation
- possible threat of harm to a child or adult
- flight risk
- parent or relative require assistance with parenting skills
- inconsistency in visitation schedule
Exchanges
Often when parents separate, they prefer not to have contact with each other. This may occur
as a result of unresolved conflict that inhibits the parents’ ability to effectively communicate,
or contact may not be possible as a history of abuse exists between two parents.
Our exchange program allows parents to “pick up” and “drop off” their children without contact,
minimizing the difficulties that may occur when parents meet for visitation.
Getting Started
Although many referrals begin with the legal community, you do not need a referral to be involved
with the program. If you do not have legal counsel or other professional help to arrange visitation
please contact the Coordinator at 519-371-5991. The Coordinator will schedule an intake
appointment to explain the service and review documents. Visits or exchanges will be scheduled after both family members have completed
separate intakes.
Fees and Court Reports
Fees are based on guidelines set by the Ministry. the Grey Bruce Supervised Access Program user fees are as follows:
- On-site visits are $30.00
- Exchanges (to and from) are $25.00
Subsidy is available to those who qualify. Policy states that parents split the fees for their child(ren's) visits, unless otherwise stated in a court order.
Reports documenting visits or exchanges are based on a sliding scale up to $400.00. Please allow for a minimum of 2
weeks notice. Payment in full is needed before the report will be released.