Major changes to Family Court proceedings coming to Cumbria

Families involved in disputes over arrangements for their children will see significant changes to the Family Court process in Cumbria from 17 November 2026, with a new approach designed to put children’s safety, welfare and experiences at the heart of proceedings.

The new Child Focused Courts programme will replace the existing Child Arrangements Programme for applications about children issued in Cumbria on or after 17 November.

The changes form part of a wider rollout across England and Wales following trials of the approach, previously known as Pathfinder. The Government announced the national expansion in March after trials found cases could be resolved up to seven and a half months faster.

Liz Wilson, Senior Associate Solicitor in the Family Law team at Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, said:

“Going to court about your children can be incredibly daunting, particularly when you’re already dealing with a difficult family situation.

“What’s positive about this new approach is the focus on understanding the child and their individual circumstances much earlier. Every family is different, and having that fuller picture from the outset should help keep the child’s needs at the heart of the process.

“For parents, the important thing is not to feel overwhelmed by the changes. If you’re unsure what the new process means for your family, getting advice early can help you understand what to expect and what your options are.”

Putting children at the heart of the process

Under the new approach, greater emphasis will be placed on gathering relevant information early, rather than information emerging gradually through a succession of hearings.

This includes earlier consideration of safeguarding concerns and greater coordination between organisations including Cafcass, local authorities and the police where appropriate.

Children should also have a stronger voice within the process, with an emphasis on understanding their perspective and how a family dispute is affecting them.

What is a Child Impact Report?

One of the main changes will be the introduction of the Child Impact Report (CIR).

In Cumbria, the report will be prepared by Cafcass or, where appropriate, the local authority. It can include direct work with the child as well as information from schools, GPs and other relevant agencies, helping to give the court a more detailed picture of the child’s circumstances, welfare and any potential risks.

The Cumbria guidance states that the report will be prepared within ten weeks. Once completed, a judge and legal adviser will consider it before the case will usually be listed for a Decision Hearing.

The intention is to give the court a fuller understanding of the child and family’s circumstances before the first substantive hearing.

Family circumstances can be particularly complex where there are allegations of domestic abuse, safeguarding concerns or significant disagreement between parents. The new approach is designed to identify risks to children’s welfare earlier, while keeping their safety and experiences at the centre of the process.

Cartmell Shepherd’s specialist Family Law team advises parents on arrangements for children and can provide advice and support throughout Family Court proceedings where necessary.

For advice about arrangements for your children or the changes to the Family Court process in Cumbria, contact Liz Wilson or the Cartmell Shepherd Family Law team on 01228 516666.

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors works with clients across Northumberland, Cumbria and nationally. It has seven offices, with two in Carlisle, as well as Brampton, Penrith, Cockermouth, Haltwhistle and Hexham.