A recent report by Members of Parliament (MPs) has highlighted significant delays in the family courts system, negatively impacting children, families, and victims of domestic abuse. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) expressed concern over the prolonged court cases involving over 4,000 children at the end of 2024, despite the requirement for most public law cases to be resolved within 26 weeks. The shortage of district judges and social workers was identified as a key factor contributing to these delays.
The PAC also raised issues regarding domestic abuse cases within the family courts, particularly noting the lack of expert support. The committee emphasized that delays in court proceedings disproportionately affect children, especially victims of domestic abuse, with the government showing a poor understanding of the varying impacts on different groups of service users.
Furthermore, the inquiry revealed challenges faced by families navigating the complex and inefficient family court system without adequate legal support. Concerns were raised about insufficient resources and training for court staff, legal advisors, and support service staff, such as the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), to assist domestic abuse victims effectively.
While the Spending Review in June 2025 allocated £2 billion for new investments in children’s social care, the PAC stressed the need for clarity on how this funding will be utilized, particularly in enhancing family support to prevent cases from reaching the court system. Clive Betts, the deputy chair of the PAC, expressed alarm at the government’s response to the delays, emphasizing the urgent necessity for reform, especially concerning the inadequate support for domestic abuse victims within the current system.
