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<p>As an essential public service, Cafcass continues to work hard to maintain its
service to children and families during very challenging circumstances. This is a
tribute to its leadership and staff at all levels.</p><p> </p><p>At the beginning
of the first national lockdown, Cafcass closed all its offices to the public and conducted
its work with children, families and the family courts remotely and continued as far
as possible to file welfare reports, attend remote hearings and progress cases accordingly.
In the summer, Cafcass published protocols setting out how and when its staff attend
court in person and on the use of remote video technology and in-person visits to
speak with children in their home, in outside spaces such as parks, or at a re-opened
Cafcass office from late July.</p><p> </p><p>On 17 November Cafcass published new
guidance setting out its approach to working with children and families during the
ongoing Covid 19 pandemic. It is Cafcass’ priority to see children and families in
person when it is in their best interest to do so, and this will depend on the particular
circumstances in each case. From the end of November all Cafcass offices and touchdown
locations will be open to provide Covid-secure places to work and to meet children
and families while keeping safe. Cafcass will continue to review and ensure that all
these measures are in accordance with government and public health guidance.</p><p>
</p><p>In terms of the impact of remote hearings on Cafcass, research by the Nuffield
Family Justice Observatory published in October shows that most professionals, including
Cafcass staff, feel that overall the courts are now working more effectively and that
there are even some benefits from remote working. However, the report also highlights
some areas of concern that need to be addressed. There are clearly circumstances where
more support is required to enable parents and young people to take part in remote
hearings effectively, and this is under consideration by the senior family judiciary.</p><p>
</p><p>Cafcass continues to experience high levels of demand for its services while
managing a rise in the number of open cases due to a reduction in case disposals.
The Ministry of Justice has allocated an additional £3.4m this year to help Cafcass
meet these challenges. Cafcass has put in place a protocol to enable it, where necessary,
to prioritise cases in local service areas so that it can continue to meet the needs
of the most vulnerable children and families.</p>
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