Pathfinder

Building on a successful pilot in North Wales and Devon, the Family Law Pathfinder has been extended to the South East Wales Family Court Division. Beginning April 29th 2024, family law cases in which domestic abuse is identified will automatically follow the Pathfinder model where children and their experiences are at the heart of proceedings. Within this, the Family Court Pathfinder IDVA is a specialised role that complements traditional IDVA services by addressing the unique needs of families within the family court system.

Jointly funded by South Wales and Gwent OPCC, and delivered through a partnership between Safer Merthyr Tydfil and Phoenix Domestic Abuse Services, this service draws on a wealth of experience in supporting both victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse. The Family Court Pathfinder aims to improve outcomes for children and families, particularly those impacted by domestic abuse, ensuring a collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate approach to family justice.