Courts failing to consider safety

Children and adults involved in domestic violence cases in the family courts are being put in danger because their safety is receiving insufficient consideration, according to a new report.

The review from HM Inspectorate of Court Administration finds that arrangements within the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service and the courts service for assessing the risks associated with allegations of domestic violence need to be “markedly strengthened”.

Cafcass chief executive Anthony Douglas said his organisation had drawn up an action plan in response.

Meanwhile, Unison and family court union Napo have left it up to members to decide on a 2.5 per cent pay offer from Cafcass.

Officials have made no recommendations, inviting members to make up their own minds in ballots.

The unions have told members that rejection is likely to mean an industrial action ballot, as they are unlikely to win any more money through negotiation.