The family court system in England and Wales is undergoing one of its most significant reforms in decades. The Pathfinder model is being expanded across the country, and Lancashire appears in the group of regions due to receive the model in the next phase before a full national rollout. With this change approaching, families in Lancashire can expect a very different, more child‑focused approach to private law proceedings.

These reforms place greater emphasis on early information‑gathering, safeguarding and understanding the child’s lived experience. The model is currently live in 10 areas, including all of Wales, West Yorkshire, Birmingham, the West Midlands, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Government plans indicate that the model will continue expanding across England over the next three years, supported by additional investment in social workers and domestic abuse advisors.

As implementation moves closer, parents in Lancashire should be aware of how the process will work and what it means for their case.

What Is the Pathfinder Model?

The Pathfinder process replaces the traditional Child Arrangements Programme for eligible cases. Instead of multiple hearings and lengthy investigations, the model front‑loads key information so that the court has a clear picture of the child’s circumstances at the outset.

A central feature of the model is the Child Impact Report. This report is prepared early in the process by Cafcass, Cafcass Cymru or the local authority. It provides an investigative, child‑centred overview of the issues, helping the court and parents understand what the child is experiencing and what arrangements may best support their safety and wellbeing.

Pilot areas have seen significant benefits, with cases concluding in around 16 weeks, compared to an average of 67 weeks under the traditional Children Act approach. Judges have described the model as a “game changer” for ensuring that children’s voices are heard early and clearly.

What Happens After the Child Impact Report?

Because the process is front‑loaded, the Child Impact Report heavily influences the next steps. Once the report is filed, the court will consider:

  • whether a hearing is necessary at all

  • whether matters can be resolved through directions

  • whether the case can proceed straight to a final determination

Directions may include further safeguarding enquiries, assessments, parenting programmes or work with Cafcass or the local authority. Where there are allegations of domestic abuse or other safeguarding concerns, the CIR may recommend a fact‑finding hearing or specific protective measures.

Why This Matters for Families in Lancashire

Once implemented locally, families issuing applications in Lancashire will experience:

  • A more child‑centred process with earlier consideration of safeguarding and wellbeing.

  • Fewer hearings and faster resolution of disputes.

  • A clearer understanding of what children are saying and experiencing, helping parents make informed decisions at an earlier stage.

For many separating parents, especially those struggling with communication difficulties or worrying about the impact of proceedings on their child, the Pathfinder approach offers a more supportive and transparent route through the court system.

Speak to One of Our Private Law Children Experts

As Lancashire prepares for the rollout, now is an ideal time to understand how these changes may affect your court application. Whether you are considering making an application, responding to one, or simply want to know how the new model will impact your family, we can help. To contact our experts, please call 01254 606 008, get in touch by email, or use the online contact form below.