Expert Voices: One Year On: Learning from the Pathfinder Process Evaluation

In response to the Harm Panel Report recommendation to reform private law, the Pathfinder pilot aims to improve the court experience and outcomes for children and parents involved in private family law proceedings, particularly including those who have experience of domestic abuse. The model is designed to bring a more problem solving, investigative approach which enables the system to ensure the voices and experiences of children are central to the decision making. It also aims to reduce the traumatic impact private law proceedings can have on families. The pilot launched in Dorset and North Wales in February 2022 and it has since then expanded to a further six regions. This event will explore the learning and recommended practice developments identified in the Private Law Pathfinder Pilot Process Evaluation (GOV.UK), published in March 2025 and consider the implementation and lessons learnt from these recommendations one year on. To discuss this, we are delighted to be joined by:

• Sophie Carter, Head of Family Justice Practice, Centre for Justice Innovation (chair)
• Dr Charlotte Barlow, Associate Professor in Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Leeds
• Dr Helen Richardson Foster, Senior Research Fellow, Connect Centre, University of Central Lancashire
• Dr Clare Scollay, Research Fellow, Connect Centre, University of Central Lancashire.
• Additional guest speakers to be confirmed