The number of private family disputes referred to Cafcass has continued a recent increase.
The latest figures from the children’s legal support organisation show that 3,554 cases were referred in July, a jump of close to a quarter since July last year when only 2,899 cases were referred.
The rise is in line with a similar increase reported for June. That month’s total of 3,419 (originally stated as 3,466) was a full one third up on the same month last year, which just 2,599 private referrals.
Cafcass noted:
“New cases received during the first six months were 15% higher than the same period in the previous year and demand in April, May, June, July, August and September, was the highest ever recorded by Cafcass in those individual months.”
Meanwhile, 1,111 care applications were referred to the organisation in July, a full nine per cent more than 12 months ago.
Not surprising. The current legislation keeps this aspect of family contention after break up on tract illustrated by such figures. If as the Office for National Statistics suggest 350,000 family separations each year and 20% are hostile by one partner then about 6,500 a month then CAFCASS are involved with about 60%.QED. There is nothing left to say but indicate that mediation has failed because it has no legislative teeth!
“Cafcass notes jump in private law demand”
I’ve never seen notes jumping, in a private law demand or anywhere else – have you got a picture?