Can extended family members apply to see child relatives? 

In England & Wales, there are currently no automatic legal rights for extended family members to see child relatives. The decision to grant contact to extended family members lies with the parents or guardians of the child.  If contact is refused, extended family members such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and step-parents can apply for a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) to formalise their relationship with the child. Extended family members need to obtain permission from the court to make an application for a CAO. This permission is granted if the court believes it is in the child’s best interests.