Pathfinder is a new, problem-solving approach to Family Court proceedings. It aims to make the process less stressful, more efficient, and more focused on the needs of the child or children involved in these proceedings.
When parents separate, emotions often run high, and in the cases where there are allegations of domestic abuse, this process can become even more complex and lengthy. Under the traditional system, it was common for families to attend multiple hearings before reaching a Final Hearing.
The traditional system only allowed CAFCASS (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service, the professional advisors of the court) to carry out initial safeguarding checks and prepare a brief safeguarding letter for the court. Due to this early information being limited, hearings were often adjourned to allow more time to gather and compile information. This contributed to increased delays and growing court backlogs.
Whereas now, the Pathfinder Scheme has addressed these issues head on. It has transformed the way cases are approached by bringing together key services involved in the Family Court such as CAFCASS, the Courts, and Local Authorities. By working collaboratively before the first hearing, professionals can identify safeguarding and welfare concerns earlier which is beneficial for all parties involved. The scheme has also reduced the number of court hearings by using pre-proceedings resources more effectively and directing more families toward out-of-court solutions, such as mediation. Crucially, it places far greater emphasis on listening to and prioritising the voice and needs of the children at the centre of every case.
After successful trials in selected courts across Wales, Dorset, Birmingham, and Solihull, the initiative is now being expanded. It was officially launch in Shropshire and surrounding courts on 11th November 2025. Pathfinder will apply to all new applications made under the Children Act in the following Courts: The Black Country & Shropshire, Herefordshire & Worcestershire and Stoke on Trent & Staffordshire.
Whilst in its early stages Pathfinder will be monitored and evaluated by ‘The Programme Board’. As with any new system it is vital that progress and progression is tracked so that any niggles or issues can be highlighted and improvements can be made. There may be teething problems and there may be some frustrations. However, there has been a successful pilot scheme, and the early indications are that service user satisfaction levels are improved and outcomes for children are better.
The Pathfinder model will continue to be rolled out to other areas over the coming months. Only time will tell if the changes incorporated will improve the experience of parents and their children.
A Breakdown of The Pathfinder Scheme – Step by Step
1. Information Gathering and Initial Assessment
Once an application is issued, a Judge or Legal Adviser will review it and decide whether it needs urgent attention; if not, directions are set for an initial hearing. If a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) has not been attended and no valid exemption is in place, the court may pause proceedings until it is completed. A MIAM is a key early step, helping parents explore whether mediation can resolve their dispute, saving time, stress, and costs while encouraging child-focused agreements outside the courtroom.
2. Child Impact Report – What it is and Why it is Important?
One the application has been received CAFCASS will be directed by the court to file a child impact report with 8 to 10 weeks. This will include safeguarding checks and may include contacting the police, local authorities, and in cases where there are concerns about risks within the school, the school will be contacted.
This report is key to the new Pathfinder Scheme. It provides the court with a clear overview of how the issues raised may affect the child or children. This includes risk assessments, background information from agencies (e.g. local authorities), and, where appropriate, the child’s wishes and feelings. If necessary, CAFCASS will speak directly to the child or children to understand their experiences and views before completing the report and submitting to the most appropriate professionals. This means that if further support is needed it can be offered to the family at the earliest opportunity.
3. Case Management Review – What it is?
The Child Impact Report will be reviewed by a Judge or legal to consider the next steps. If the Court has no concerns about the safety of the parties involved, including the child or children, then the Court may decide that matters can be resolved outside Court or at a hearing. If the Court has concerns about the safety of any parties involved, the Court may direct further work from CAFCASS or the local authority. This may include DNA testing, drugs and alcohol testing, written statements or for parents to attend courses and the matter will be listed for a hearing.
4. Interventions & Updating The Child Impact Report
Where a hearing is required, the court may ask CAFCASS to update the Child Impact Report to reflect any developments, such as the parties’ engagement with recommended interventions or any progress in resolving issues.
5. The Review & Next Steps
In more complex cases involving significant disputes or safeguarding issues, further hearings may be required. A review hearing allows the court to re-examine the progress of the case and determine whether any additional measures are required. Although, in some cases a hearing may not be needed which may result in a non-hearing review which will consider arrangements for the child or children. If difficulties have arisen during contact or care arrangements, the court may order a staged progression to ensure the child’s safety is protected.
Breakdown of the Main Aims of the Pathfinder Scheme
• To improve the Court experience of families and children, with a particular focus on parent victims of domestic abuse and their children.
• To adopt a multi-agency approach to improve communication between the family Court and other agencies such as the police, local authorities and in particular how allegations of domestic abuse are dealt with from the outset.
• To make the process more efficient, avoiding delays whilst ensuring all orders made are safe and appropriate to each case, to reduce the number of court hearings.
• To reduce re-traumatisation of domestic abuse survivors, including children, that may be experienced through the court process.
• To reduce the number of returning cases by providing a more sustainable order.
‘What if I have an existing Application?’
If you have an existing Children Act application in process, this will continue through the existing ‘Children Application Programme’ and will not be impacted. Pathfinder will apply to all new applications made under the Children Act in the following Courts: The Black Country & Shropshire, Herefordshire & Worcestershire and Stoke on Trent & Staffordshire from 11th November 2025.
How Hatchers Solicitors Can Help Assist You Through This Process?
Navigating relationship breakdowns, managing child arrangements, and understanding the legal process can feel overwhelming. We provide clear, practical advice to help make these challenges easier to manage, ensuring you do not have to face them alone. If you need any assistance with any family or matrimonial matters, speak with our team now on 01743 248545, or fill out a quick enquiry form.
