Contact Order against parent working shifts

[ReindeerBollocks]

Can I apply for a Contact Order against a parent who works varying hours/shifts?

I intend to apply for a set contact order, but am concerned it will be refused due to the other parents erratic working schedule. I am intending to lodge the order because of constant failure/changing of contact at short notice (mainly due to work but not always).

TIA

[ReindeerBollocks]

I have compromised and am actually trying to force this prick to see his child. He has just cancelled seeing the child for two weeks whilst he works ? said child will be undergoing hospital treatment during this time, which this parent is fully aware of. In fact the treatment was arranged around this mans holiday plans and he now is not taking on some of the work.

I want to force weekend contact ? it isnt possible for weekday contact and this guy is only contracted two days but picks up overtime as and when he pleases.

I'm going to lodge the order regardless I was just wondering whether it would be successful.

[PatriciaHolm]

You can't force contact. Even if there is a court order, the non resident parent can just not abide by it and there will be no sanctions; they can cancel contact without penalty. So will the court order actually change anything?

[ReindeerBollocks]

I thought there was sanctions if the order was breached? Would it be a pointless exercise then?

I was hoping it would bring some semblance of stability to my child's life as while everything is chopping and changing, it is leaving my child vulnerable.

[titchy]

The only sanctions are if there is a court order and YOU do not make child available.

[OldLadyKnowsNothing]

And even then, rarely enforced. Sorry, OP, but even a court order cannot force your ex to see the child.

[ReindeerBollocks]

That's ridiculous, no? I'm so frustrated with the man I could cry.

Thing is that my child is often extremely sad/frustrated due to unpredictable contact - and blames me. If there was an order in place and child was made available, at least then child would know it was his useless fathers fault. But that seems rather unfair on my DC.

So basically whatever happens I will be picking up the brunt of the care, until he swans in like Disney Dad as per. Great. :(

[RedHelenB]

Personally I would leave it & let him text you/your child to see if child is free to see him on an as & when basis. If child isn't expecting a set day/time then they can't be let down. My ex does this & it's not ideal but it does mean they see their dad.