CHILDREN AND FAMILY COURT ADVISORY SUPPORT SERVICE

That this House believes that the fundamental principles of the Children Act should inform the approach and practice of Children and Family Court Advisory Support Service (CAFCASS) and that the welfare of the child should be the paramount consideration; further believes that there should be active parliamentary oversight of the agency's important work; is alarmed at reports from unions representing staff in CAFCASS of growing backlogs, soaring workloads, low morale and constant restructuring; recognises that CAFCASS has had an increase in real terms in its budget of seven per cent. during the past two years, and is due a similar increase next year; but is concerned that unless the severe problems the organisation continues to face are resolved that practitioners will be unable to fulfil their statutory duties in providing a vital service to children and families.