Recent reporting has highlighted ongoing concerns about how victim-survivors of domestic abuse are treated within the family courts system, including findings of gender bias and instances of victim-blaming in decision-making processes.
A recent Guardian article exploring these issues reflects wider concerns raised by campaigners and practitioners about the experiences of survivors navigating court proceedings, particularly in cases involving domestic abuse and child contact disputes. Family courts and gender bias report
The reality for survivors in the family courts
For many victim-survivors, family court proceedings are not just legal processes – they are emotionally complex, high-risk situations where they may still be experiencing coercive control, intimidation or ongoing abuse.
Concerns raised nationally include the risk of survivors feeling disbelieved, blamed, or not adequately protected when presenting their experiences of abuse. These challenges can add further trauma at a time when safety, stability and clarity are most needed.
The role of The Child Focused Court IDVAs
At West Mercia Women’s Aid, our Child Focused Court project plays a vital role in supporting survivors through these complex systems.
Our Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) work alongside victim-survivors who are involved in or at risk of family court proceedings, ensuring they are not navigating the process alone.
This includes:
- Providing specialist emotional and practical support throughout proceedings
- Helping survivors understand court processes and their rights
- Supporting safety planning in situations where contact or proceedings may increase risk
- Working alongside legal professionals and other agencies to advocate for survivor safety
- Ensuring the voice of the victim-survivor remains central throughout decision-making processes
Advocacy, safety and support
The family court system can feel overwhelming, particularly when combined with the ongoing dynamics of abuse.
Pathfinders IDVAs play a crucial role in bridging this gap – offering consistent, informed and trauma-aware support that helps survivors navigate both the emotional and practical challenges they may face.
By providing advocacy and continuity, the service helps ensure that survivors are better supported, better informed and better able to make decisions about their safety and future.
Why this matters
National conversations about family courts highlight the importance of recognising how domestic abuse can continue long after a relationship ends – and how systems must be equipped to respond safely and appropriately.
For West Mercia Women’s Aid, this reinforces the importance of specialist services like the Child Focused Court pilot, where trained IDVAs work to ensure survivors are heard, supported and believed at every stage.
Behind every court case is a person trying to rebuild their life and keep themselves and their children safe. Specialist support can make a critical difference to that journey.
Find out more about the help and support available from West Mercia Women’s Aid here.