Cafcass marks 25-year anniversary
On 16 June, Cafcass celebrated its 25th anniversary of serving children and families with a reception at the Royal Courts of Justice.
Working every year with c130,000 children since its inception1, the organisation will have supported approximately 2.2 million children in public or private law proceedings.
Cafcass helps children whose care and family arrangements are decided by the family court. It has a statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote children’s welfare as set out in the 1989 Children Act. In order to do this effectively, priority is given to assessments about harm and the risk of future harm to children, understanding their experiences, wishes, feelings and hopes for the future.
At the anniversary event, Cafcass Chief Executive Jacky Tiotto and Deputy Chair of Cafcass Board Professor Eileen Munro hosted professionals from family justice and public bodies supporting children and families. They were also joined by guest speakers including Neal Barcoe (Ministry of Justice) and President of the Family Division, Sir Stephen Cobb.
The event marked the recent launch of Cafcass’ 2026-2029 strategy, joined colleagues in celebrating 25 years of work with children and looked both back and to the future in the continued commitment to hold the welfare and safety of children at the centre of family justice.
Justice Minister Baroness Levitt KC said:
"For 25 years, Cafcass has helped ensure that the voices and interests of children remain at the heart of Family Court proceedings. This anniversary is an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary commitment of Cafcass, whose expertise and dedication support children and families through some of the most challenging circumstances they can face.
“I want to congratulate Cafcass on reaching this milestone and thank everyone who has contributed to its success in improving the lives of children across England."
Jacky Tiotto said:
“Our shared responsibility continues to be, as it was in 2001, to stand alongside children, making sure they are seen, heard, protected and at the centre of proceedings that concern their safety, welfare and futures. It remains Cafcass’ and Cafcass Cymru’s privilege to be a part of the family justice system and I thank everyone for their part in the very complex and profound work they are doing everyday for children, families and their carers.”
Notes to editors
1 Cafcass was founded on 1 April 2001, and figures reflect the time until 1 April 2026. All statistics quoted are approximate.