Child-focused courts: have we found the right path?

David Gareth Evans, 9 Park Place, Cardiff

On 17 March 2026 the Lord Chancellor, David Lammy, announced the national roll out of the Child Focused Model (CFM) for private law children proceedings across England and Wales.

Drawing on practitioner experience in Wales, this article contrasts the CFM with the previous Child Arrangements Programme, highlighting its emphasis on early engagement, reduced delay, and a more inquisitorial, problem solving approach.

The article identifies the clear advantages of the new model, which includes the faster resolution of cases, earlier involvement of CAFCASS, and a less adversarial process that prioritises the child’s welfare and outcomes.  However, the article offers a critical evaluation of emerging concerns, including regional inconsistency, limited appellate guidance, the central role and variable quality of Child Impact Reports, and the growing risk of quasi judicial fact-finding by report authors and associated professionals, such as IDVAs. Particular attention is given to the handling of domestic abuse allegations and the procedural challenges posed by complex cases such as relocation and enforcement.

The article concludes that, while the CFM represents a significant and welcome reform, its long-term success depends on clearer national guidance, improved training, and greater procedural consistency.