Cafcass welcomes new Family Justice Council
1 July 2004
Cafcass welcomed today’s launch of the
Family Justice Council, a new government body reporting to the
Department of Constitutional Affairs.
The Council, chaired by the President of the
Family Division, Dame Elizabeth Butler-Sloss, consists of 19
individual members representing professionals, academics and users
with a further 10 ex-officio representatives from a range of
government departments and relevant organisations. It has a
clear remit to advise on improvements to the existing family
justice system in England and Wales.
Cafcass has an ex-officio seat on the Council
and will be represented by Jane Booth, Cafcass’ Divisional Director
for the Northern Region.
Baroness Jill Pitkeathley OBE, Chair of
Cafcass said, “It is very encouraging to see so much
expertise and influence coming together under one cohesive
body.
“The set-up of this new Council offers a great
opportunity to make a real difference within the family justice
system.”
Jane Booth of Cafcass said, “There is no
doubt that Cafcass has a role to play and a voice to be heard on
behalf of the thousands of children and families we support.
“The Family Justice Council offers a chance
for all involved in Family Law to show what can be achieved by
working together. I relish the challenge.”