Children's Voices and Family Justice – Time for Change

FLRN Voice of the Child Project

Article 12 of the UNCRC gives children the right to express their views, feelings and wishes freely in matters affecting their lives and for those views to be taken seriously. Yet, research in England and Wales and Australia has revealed that this is not a reality for children in private family law proceedings in court, with even greater concerns about whether their voices are heard in out-of-court family justice processes.

This workshop aims to promote discussion and consider the further research needed to achieve meaningful change, whether through improved practice, process or legislative reform, to make hearing and listening to children’s voices a reality when parents separate.

By bringing together academics, policymakers, family practitioners and judges, as well as children and young people themselves, the workshop will consider the current situation in England and Wales, the position in Australia, and what each jurisdiction can learn from the other to pave the road to reform.

The schedule for the day will be announced shortly. 

The event will be held in a hybrid format and so there are two registration options:

'In-person' registration

'Online' registration

Supported by: