How transparent can we be?

by | Jan 7, 2015 | Analysis, Cases, Comment, Project

As its very new, we’re still feeling our way through how we will run this project – and we have recently had to deal with the thorny issue of what the limits are on comments about individual cases. We have an “Editorial Policy” here, which sets...

Children identified – a deterrent to parents?

by | Dec 22, 2014 | Comment

This article from the Press Gazette explains why the judge thought it right to identify the members of this family, who were involved in an international abduction case (or ‘tug of love’ in media-speak) What do people think? (I’ve yet to see how it...

The recent debate about opening up the Family Courts

by | Dec 21, 2014 | Comment

Beyond all ideas of  right and wrong there is a field – I will meet you there. Rumi   On 11th November 2014 the Family Justice Council held its 8th Annual Debate and panel discussion at Westminster Central Hall. The topic for discussion was transparency....

Cats, genies and stable doors.

by | Sep 30, 2014 | Comment

Locking the stable door after the horse has bolted There are many metaphors which are applicable in this situation. Cats that are out of bags, genies that are out of their bottles etc, etc. What the metaphors share is recognition of the futility of trying to act after...

Follow the money Part Two

by | Aug 28, 2014 | Comment

Follow the Money Part Two (please read Part One first, which sets out the context and purpose)   Social workers The social worker is the person at the sharp end. On any individual case, they have to make the judgment call as to whether the situation can work at...