A New, Child-Focused Approach to Family Disputes

When families separate, making decisions about children—where they live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how they’re supported—can be emotionally challenging. In some cases, parents turn to the Family Court for help. But for many years, the system designed to support these families has been criticised for being slow, adversarial, and at times, harmful—especially for children caught in the middle.

That’s where the Pathfinder Pilot comes in—a new approach to resolving children disputes that puts the child’s welfare and family wellbeing at the heart of the process.

In this blog, we explain what the Pathfinder Pilot is, it’s expected benefits and the expected process.

What is the Pathfinder Pilot?

The Pathfinder Pilot is a new way of managing children cases in the Family Court. It was launched in 2022 in two pilot areas, with the aim of improving how disputes between separated parents or carers are handled.

The pilot was introduced in West Yorkshire on 3rd June 2025. 

The pilot focuses on cases where parents apply to the court for Child Arrangements Orders, Specific Issue Orders, or Prohibited Steps Orders under the Children Act. These are often needed when parents can’t agree on important issues such as:

·       Where the child should live

·       How much time the child spends with each parent

·       Whether a child can move schools or relocate

·       What happens when there are concerns about safety, wellbeing, or abuse

Instead of following the usual court process, Pathfinder introduces a more joined-up and supportive multi-agency approach, involving early assessment, problem-solving, and direct work with families.

Expected benefits

Pathfinder has been designed to improve the experience for families which specific emphasis on supporting the children’s wellbeing.

Some of the expected key benefits are:-

1.     Child focused decision making – the children’s wishes and feelings are explored earlier and meaningfully through direct work with Family Court Advisors.

2.     Early assessment and safeguarding – early intervention by professionals by way of comprehensive assessments early on means risks of domestic abuse are identified early.

3.     Reduced conflict between parents – judge’s use problem-solving hearings to help parents focus on the child’s needs not their own disputes. Cooperation and mutual understanding are encouraged.

4.     Access to support services – the goal is to resolve root causes of conflict and help families develop healthier communication and parenting after separation.

5.     A more efficient process – fewer hearings are needed and there is continuity of a single judge throughout the case.

6.     Better outcomes for children – the ultimate goal of Pathfinder is to improve the outcomes for children.

7.     Empowered parents – families are encouraged to find solutions together, with professional guidance.

8.     Joined-up professional involvement – all professionals involved work together. Communication between agencies is clearer, leading to more consistent support for families.

The process

The Pathfinder approach is based on the idea that early support, better communication, and less conflict leads to better outcomes for children. Here's how the process is expected to work:-

Day 1 – Issue and Pre-Gatekeeping

·       The application is received by the court Pathfinder team who will identify whether the Local Authority or Cafcass will prepare the Child Impact Report.

Day 2 – Initial Gatekeeping

·       The court will direct for the Child Impact Report to be filed within 8 weeks.

·       The report writer will see the child(ren), speak to the parents and make relevant referrals to support agencies if required. This is the front loading of information.

Days 7 – 10

·       The case progression officer will contact any self-represented parents to check they have received the papers, explain the court process and confirm key dates.

Week 8

·       Child Impact Report filed with the court.

Week 9

·       A second gatekeeping hearing will take place in the absence of the parties. The judge will consider the Child Impact Report and consider either making further directions for the parties, concluding the case or listing the case for a Decision Hearing.

Week 10/12

·       If a Decision Hearing is listed, this will be a judge led conciliation hearing at which a decision may be reached.

·       If a decision is not reached, a Final Hearing will be listed.

Final thoughts

Navigating separation and co-parenting can be incredibly tough. When disagreements arise, it’s natural to feel anxious, protective, and uncertain. But going to court doesn’t always need to make things worse. The Pathfinder Pilot hopes to offer a more supportive, child-friendly path through the legal system—one that listens, understands, and aims to help families build a more stable future.

If you’re unsure about your options or need advice about Children Act proceedings, it’s important to speak with a specialist family solicitor . At Switalskis, our experienced family law time can guide you through every stage of the process, whether or not your case is in a Pathfinder area, to ensure your child’s needs are prioritised, and support you every step of the way.

Contact us today to arrange a free half hour advice appointment and find out how we can assist you.