My ex was able to build a case against me because the pandemic affected her mental health badly and this had a knock on impact on our children on top of what they had to put up with during that time. As my son struggled at school, she managed to have both the school and early help behind her (she alleged domestic abuse as the cause of his problematic behaviour) but even so I was able to persuade the judges that a FFH was not necessary. The judge ordered a welfare report first and asked Cafcass for their recommendation regarding the FFH.And yes, he has the kids 50/50. He claims they have been behaving differently with him and accuses mother of coaching them - the reason they are behaving differently (with both sides) is the total change to their lives. The mother wants them to see both parents and to coparent as best as possible but father still on war path, will not communicate, always talks about allegations and never about what is best for children.
There was a section 7 report and they made a similar recommendation, no FFH. Cafcass made some bizarre recommendations which the judge thankfully ignored in their most, but sadly for me I could not get a 50/50 arrangement, more like 35/65 which I'm still trying to argue in the upcoming final welfare hearing.
Judges are also cautious and I believe a good solicitor may advise that there should be a section 7 welfare report first and let Cafcass make the recommendation for a FFH or not.
Cafcass will then speak to the parties, school, social worker, etc, see any police disclosure and make a recommendation. They may not order a FFH, but they could very much limit the father's contact because of his behaviour and he may be in for a big shock. Cafcass could seriously recommend curtailing his time because it will be exposing the children to conflict.