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hi,
I can understand your frustrations. 1 or 2 hours in a contact centre is so restrictive for a 10 year old child. If I did not go to court, I would have likely be stuck with seeing kids only on saturdays for 2 years or more. If there are no safeguarding concerns, then I don't think you should be stuck in a contact centre for such long periods.
Have you thought about self-representing? The first time I went through courts I had a barrister. I returned the 2nd time round, to vary order and ask for more time with kids. I self-represented after learning the process from the first time, and saved a lot on costs. You could make an application to vary your order, for more time with child. you could explain that you have used contact centre for a very long time, have good reports from them, and child is wishing and expressing to spend more time with father, and contact centre is very restrictive. that you are seeking regular unsupervised contact, and to progress to overnight stays at your home.
you would have to attempt mediation before applying to court. can book a MIAM appointment for yourself. I used mediateuk on 2 occasions. you could get in touch with them: https://www.mediateuk.co.uk/online-miam/
@bill337 I think perhaps if I had a check list to walk me through the process I might be able to self represent. Not sure it's the wiser option. It's been a few years since.
There's a guide to applying for a child arrangements order without a lawyer on the www.advicenow.org.uk website which will take you through it
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