Learn about Kinship’s research, informed by the experiences of kinship carers, and see how we use this evidence to call for change in law, policy, and practice.
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"The forgotten 10%": private family law cases involving non-parents
This study is funded by the Nuffield Foundation and led by Lancaster University in collaboration with the University of Bristol, Kinship and Families in Harmony. The research team comprises: Linda Cusworth, Jon Symonds and Jessica Roy.
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Study Status: ongoing
Background
Important decisions are made every day in the family courts about where children live and who they spend time with. While 90% of private law cases are between 2 parents, the other 10% involve 1 or more adults who are not the child’s parent, such as grandparents, aunts and uncles, siblings and step-parents. However little is known about the circumstances, needs and experiences of children and families involved in non-parent cases. They are a “forgotten 10%”, overlooked in policy and family justice reform.
Research aims and objectives
This research aims to provide a state of the field insight into private family law cases involving non-parents and to make recommendations for policy and practice reform with the aim of improving the experiences of children and families.
The objectives are to:
- Identify and describe the circumstances surrounding non-parent private law cases including characteristics of children and families involved
- Explore the life-cycle of non-parent private law cases by understanding the timescales, legal outcomes, and the mechanisms that inform decision-making by agencies
- Understand children’s, adults’ and professionals’ perspectives and experiences of non-parent private law cases
What does the study involve?
A systematic review of research, legislation, guidance and policy documents will be undertaken to develop state-of-the-field insights and to inform subsequent data collection. Family court case files will be analysed to provide an in-depth overview of non-parent private family law applications.
We will seek the perspectives of children and family members via interviews and experiences of professionals via focus groups. Kinship will recruit, train and support 2 peer researchers who will contribute to participant recruitment, data collection, analysis, policy implications and dissemination.
Who can I talk to about the project?
If you are interested in taking part or have any questions, contact:
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