Looking for help in your family court proceedings?Bridge The Gap is a free, community-built guide to UK family court, written by litigants and McKenzie Friends, for litigants. Real observations, plain English, and people who can help..
A report prepared by Cafcass, Cafcass Cymru or social services under the child-focused courts model (currently a pilot in some court areas), covering safeguarding checks, the child's views where possible, and a domestic abuse risk assessment. In those areas it replaces earlier styles of safeguarding letters and carries significant weight because it is often the main evidence the judge relies on before a decision hearing.
In Plain English
A report written early in a child arrangements case that checks for safety concerns and records what the child thinks, which the judge relies heavily on when deciding what happens next.
This content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
A "gap" is a common assumption people hold going into family court, set against what the court actually does. The bold line below is the assumption — not a fact. The reality underneath is what the court typically observes.
Gap #153
The assumption
When I apply to court, I'll get to attend the first hearing and tell the judge what's been happening.
The reality
The Child-Focused Courts model (formerly Pathfinder) is being rolled out nationally over three years from March 2026. The pilot under PD 36Z runs until 31 March 2027, now in 10 of 43 court areas — latest additions: Portsmouth, Southampton, Newport (IOW). From 17 November 2026 PD 36Z paragraph 1.4G adds a further 29 court locations. Outside these areas, the first hearing is usually a FHDRA. In pilot areas, your case is assessed via a CAFCASS Child Impact Report before any hearing. A decision may be made without you in the room — your voice reaches the court through that report.
Gap #92
The assumption
I do not need to prepare for the Cafcass safeguarding call — I will just answer their questions honestly.
The reality
The Cafcass safeguarding call is typically seen as critical. In the standard route it feeds into a short safeguarding letter the court receives before the first hearing; in a Child Focused Court, Cafcass also arranges a call with a Family Court Adviser early on, as part of gathering information for the Child Impact Report. Cafcass is usually focused on identifying risks such as domestic abuse and mental health concerns. Being aware of the topics discussed and preparing thoughtful responses can be key to effective participation.
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A McKenzie Friend can help you understand terms like these in the context of your case.
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