A recent report by Members of Parliament (MPs) has highlighted concerning delays in the family court system, negatively impacting children, families, and victims of domestic abuse. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) expressed alarm over the government’s lack of recognition of the pressing need for system reforms.
Statistics revealed that over 4,000 children were involved in court cases lasting up to two years by the end of 2024, despite the requirement for most public law cases to be resolved within 26 weeks. The PAC attributed these delays to a shortage of district judges and social workers.
The inquiry also raised issues related to domestic abuse cases, citing a lack of expert support. Delays in court proceedings were noted to have a significant impact on children, particularly victims of domestic abuse. The PAC criticized the government for its limited understanding of the varying effects on different service user groups and the lack of post-court support for children.
Moreover, concerns were voiced about the complexity and inefficiency of family courts, making navigation challenging for families without legal assistance. The inquiry highlighted inadequacies in resources and training for court staff, legal advisors, and Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) personnel in supporting domestic abuse victims.
While the Spending Review of June 2025 earmarked £2 billion for new investments in children’s social care, the inquiry emphasized the need for clarity on how this funding will be utilized, particularly in enhancing family support to prevent court involvement.
Deputy chair of the PAC, Clive Betts, expressed dismay over the government’s response to the long waiting times in the system, emphasizing the urgent requirement for substantial reforms. The inquiry underscored the system’s failure to meet the needs of domestic abuse victims, signaling a critical area for improvement.