If you’re a parent in Hampshire or the Isle of Wight and facing family court proceedings, big changes are coming. From 6 January 2026, the courts here will be part of the national rollout of the Pathfinder Pilot — a new way of handling private law children cases that puts children’s welfare and voices at the heart of the process.
As a family lawyer in Hampshire, I’ve been following this reform closely, and it represents one of the most significant shifts in the family justice system in decades.
Why Pathfinder?
In the past, family cases have often dragged on, sometimes focusing more on parental disputes than on the children themselves. The Harm Panel Report (2020) highlighted serious concerns — including delays, limited child participation, and the distress families face, particularly where domestic abuse is involved.
The Pathfinder model aims to fix these issues, drawing on successful pilots in Dorset, Wales, Birmingham, and West Yorkshire. Early results show faster outcomes, reduced backlogs, and greater inclusion of children’s voices. Locally, Dorset was one of the first areas to trial Pathfinder, and the results have been extremely positive — leading to quicker resolutions and more child-centred outcomes.
What Will Change for Parents in Hampshire?
When the Hampshire & Isle of Wight courts go live with Pathfinder, parents can expect:
• Child Impact Reports (CIRs): These replace the old safeguarding letters. A single CIR will capture your child’s wishes and feelings, highlight risks (such as domestic abuse), and show how parental conflict affects them.
• Fewer, more focused hearings: The court will streamline hearings — moving cases forward faster and avoiding unnecessary delays.
• Case Progression Officers: These professionals will guide families through the process, ensuring clarity and support at every stage.
• Problem-solving approach: The emphasis shifts from conflict between parents to collaboration between professionals and agencies for the child’s benefit.
• Stronger domestic abuse support: Independent Domestic Violence Advisers (IDVAs) and local services will now have a more active role in helping to make proceedings safer and less intimidating.
What Does Pathfinder Mean for You and Your Children?
Parents working with a family lawyer in Hampshire can expect to notice several key benefits as the Pathfinder model takes effect:
• Quicker outcomes: Faster case progression and reduced uncertainty for children.
• Children’s voices heard: Their views will be gathered early and taken seriously.
• Less adversarial: More focus on solutions, less on disputes.
• Supportive environment: Enhanced safeguarding and emotional support if domestic abuse is an issue.
Preparing for Pathfinder: What Parents Should Do Now
The family courts in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are already gearing up for these changes. Parents should take proactive steps:
1. Expect earlier hearings: Courts are working to clear backlogs before January 2026. This may mean earlier review hearings and quicker opportunities to resolve matters.
2. Be child-focused: Pathfinder prioritises the impact of conflict on children, not just the legal arguments between parents.
3. Seek early legal advice: A family lawyer in Hampshire familiar with the Pathfinder process can explain how these reforms apply to your case and help you prepare effectively.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of the Pathfinder Pilot across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight represents a cultural shift in how family courts operate. Building on Dorset’s success, this approach makes the system faster, safer, and more child-focused. For parents, it means less time in court, better support, and a process centred around what truly matters — your child’s wellbeing.
Kate Evans is a Senior Paralegal with Just Family Law and has extensive experience in Children Act cases, particularly those involving high conflict or special educational needs.
Speak to a Family Lawyer in Hampshire
If you’re unsure how these changes will affect your family, contact a family lawyer in Hampshire for tailored advice on preparing for Pathfinder and protecting your child’s welfare.
To book an appointment with Kate to discuss your situation, please contact her on 01962 217640, kateevans@just-family-law.com or book in a call directly to her calendar https://calendly.com/jfl_kateevans
