Child focused courts and the neurodivergent family

Sian Cox, Harcourt Chambers

The writers consider the anticipated roll out of the Child Focused Courts and how this differs from the current Child Arrangements Programme.  The article focuses on how neurodivergence is recognised and treated by the new CFC model in which Cafcass has a far more central role and how lawyers and the family justice system more broadly can incorporate best practice.  The writers consider the current practice aids available to Cafcass as well as the ‘All About Me’ documents that have been prepared by FLANC (Family Law Advice for the Neurodivergent Community). The article sets out some practical suggestions for how Cafcass Officers (or other professionals) may wish to work with neurodivergent children and neurodivergent parents and how practitioners can support parents in the new CFC process.  The article touches on the use of AI by neurodivergent parents and the need for clear boundaries.