When clients contact us to discuss contact or living arrangements for their children there is a lot to think about and we in Wales have already been working with the Private Law Pathfinder to try and speed matters up to get the best child focused result with the matter strictly timetabled from the beginning.
It was announced on 17th March 2026 that Private Law Applications in the Family Court will follow the Child Focused Model (previously known as the Private Law Pathfinder).
What is the Child Focused Model?
This model represents a reform in the way private law cases concerning children are ran. This model has been piloted since February 2022 in the Family Courts in North Wales and Dorset.
The purpose of this model was to improve the Court Process and the outcomes for families in particular in cases involving Domestic Abuse.
Upon making an application to Court for any private law order such as a Child Arrangements Order, CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory Service) prepare a Child Impact Report. CAFCASS independently advice the Family Courts in England and Wales about the best interests of children involved in ongoing Family Court Proceedings.
A Child Impact Report will assess the children’s needs and wellbeing and put forward recommendations to the Judge as to what arrangements are in a child’s best interests. The report will include safeguarding checks and may include risk assessments from appropriate agencies. Also, when appropriate, CAFCASS will meet with the child to obtain their wishes and feelings.
The model places children and victims of Domestic Abuse in the centre of decision making.
Key Improvements
The model identifies risks in a case earlier on within the proceedings. By doing this, it ensures that families are provided with better protection and support.
Professionals have noted that this model introduces a more streamlined approach to proceedings. Key improvements include:-
- Earlier Risk Identification.
- Stronger Support for victims of Domestic Abuse.
- Greater focus on Children.
- Faster Resolutions.
- Reduced Backlog.
National Role out Plan
The model is currently active in 10 out of 43 areas across England and Wales. A statement made by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr David Lammy has confirmed that the government are committed to rolling out the Child Focused Model nationally over the next three years.
An investment of £17 million in 2026/2027 will support the next phase of the rollout. It is understood that the funding will also increase Social Worker capacity and introduce more domestic abuse specialists into the Family Court.
Professional and Judicial Opinions CAFCASS
CAFCASS has welcomed the Ministry of Justice’s announcement. Jacky Titto, Chief Executive of CAFCASS has described the reforms as a ‘remarkable achievement’. She has emphasised under the new model children will be seen and heard earlier in proceedings, their voices will directly inform court decisions from the outset and Judges will have clearer insight into the impact and risks of harm, presented in the child’s own words.
The President of the Family Division, The Rt. Hon. Sir Andrew McFarlane, welcomed the announcement as a ‘game changer’ for the family justice system.
Contact us
For advice in relation to making an application to Court to deal with Children Matters under the Child Focused Model, please call us on 01492 860420 or contact the team online.
Gamlins Solicitors LLP has a network of offices across North Wales, and we can arrange an in-person appointment at the office that’s most convenient for you or a remote appointment if you prefer.
