New family court model launched in Hampshire and Isle of Wight
The Pilot Scheme Pathfinder courts aim to protect children and victims of domestic abuse
An innovative family court model known as 'Pathfinder' is being rolled out across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight starting this week, in a bid to better protect children and families affected by domestic abuse and family breakdown.
Pathfinder courts use early investigations by authorities before hearings take place to speed up decisions, identify risks to children earlier, and prevent families from experiencing extended courtroom delays.
The initiative has already been trailed in regions such as Dorset and north Wales, where case backlogs have halved and the average time for resolutions shortened by up to 7.5 months.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones said she welcomed the expansion of the Pathfinder model locally.
“I’m delighted the Pathfinder approach is being rolled out here to ensure survivors and their children are protected from the damaging effects of family breakdown," she said.
"Unfortunately, many of the cases we see in family courts involve domestic abuse. By commissioning services like The You Trust, we can provide better ongoing support for the families and children involved in these cases."
Enhanced support for children and families
The government plans for the Pathfinder process include producing a Child Impact Report early in proceedings to assess the needs of children. Judges then review the reports and can order further investigations or issue protective orders.
Independent Domestic Violence Advisers will also give primary support to adult and child victims of abuse.
Support services provided by The You Trust will receive £105,000 in funding this year from the PCC, with an additional £319,500 in funding planned for next year.
Justice Minister Baroness Alison Levitt KC commended the courts’ streamlined approach, saying: “When relationships between parents break down, the courts must respond without delay to protect children and prevent any further distress. That's exactly what our Pathfinder courts are doing."
Improving family court efficiency
The rollout of Pathfinder courts is set to operate across Aldershot, Basingstoke, Newport (Isle of Wight), Portsmouth, Southampton, and Winchester.
First introduced during a period of historic Family Court backlogs, the government has said these new processes are designed to reduce time, conflict, and prolonged trauma for children and families navigating separation cases.
The success of pilots across Dorset, Wales, and other regions, where backlogs have been substantially reduced, has prompted the phased timetable for extension into other areas, including Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.