We are an experienced and compassionate team, who believe that each family has strengths and the desire for the very best for their children, but it can be hard to navigate the emotional and practical rollercoaster when emotions are high. We wish to help guide you as smoothly as possible through the process to effective co-parenting, nurturing as we go and ensuring that the child remains the pivotal focus.
Independent Social Worker
Hi, I’m Lisa Cregeen, experienced Independent Social worker and Rule 16.4 Family Court Guardian, founder of Family Matters Guildford. This was born from a recognition, through my various roles, that at a time of great vulnerability and stress, it is hard to navigate and access support services to help your family adjust to a change of family circumstances. It is often an exhausting and overwhelming period in your life and the right support services can make all the difference to the well-being and future of your family.
We are an experienced and compassionate team, who believe that each family has strengths and the desire for the very best for their children, but it can be hard to navigate the emotional and practical rollercoaster when emotions are high. We wish to help guide you as smoothly as possible through the process to effective co-parenting, nurturing as we go and ensuring that the child remains the pivotal focus.
We offer a range of services to assist you in this process, including a variety of family time contact options, therapeutic support services and professional and family support services. We are constantly developing and expanding our services to ensure that families truly feel supported, for the best outcomes possible.
We have created a cosy, family friendly environment to offer all the support services and cannot wait to welcome you in for a visit. We are conveniently located to ensure easy access to the centre, as well as a great choice of activities for families during their time together.
Our centre is a ‘home from home environment with four contact and therapeutic rooms.
Easy room is comfortably furnished to provide a nurturing and relaxed environment, with a selection of toys, games and books accessible.
There is a shared kitchen and dining area which people can use during their time with us to help create some of those family moments and assist in parents being able to meet children’s needs.
For warmer weather, there is a secure shared garden, opening from the dining room.
This room is ideal for teenage aged children or larger family groups. There is access to a flat screen TV and arts and games available.
The table extends to provide tabled seating for approximately 6.
This is our cozy den, devised with our littlest visitors in mind.
There are a variety of younger toys for them to access with a sofa that can be easily moved and rearranged as their imagination desires.
Groups up to 10
A peaceful room with a lovely selection of toys and games available, as well as a smaller crafts station.
Our values are intrinsic in what we do. These include…
It is really important you feel nurtured and supported through this significant life event. We can’t take it away, but we can guide you with the respect, care and compassion you need during this difficult time. It is our goal to assist you in reaching the best outcome for your child, so you can all move to a better place.
No matter how hard communication is between you as adults, we will always try to bring you back. Ensuring discussions and decisions regarding the children, are as child focused as possible. Ultimately, parents want what is best for their children, even if they can’t agree what that looks like. We will be there to help guide you through these challenges and bring the child’s voice into your decision making.
We want you to feel as comfortable as possible during your time with us. Our aim is to create a “home from home” where children can relax and spend quality time with a family member. We believe that positive change can be achieved with the right support and we are here to work through this together. We look forward to welcoming you to our centre.
Separation and divorce is hard. Going through the Court process adds another layer of complexity. We aren’t here to take sides but enable parents to ensure your child’s best interests and safety is the highest priority. Without judgement , we hope our professional expertise will benefit everyone going through this difficult journey.
Send us an email, give us a call or fill in our form and we’ll get back to you shortly.