The Journey Through Proceedings Mini-Series

We are thrilled to announce the launch of The Journey Through Proceedings, a brand-new mini-series that brings the lived experiences of mothers who have been through care proceedings directly to you.

This series is an essential listen for anyone working in, or affected by, the family justice system. It reveals both the raw emotions and the hope that threads through some of life’s most challenging moments.

In each episode, we’ll hear directly from Claire, Vanessa and Hannah, who are graduates of the Pause programme. We are incredibly grateful to them and feel privileged to be able to share their stories.

Episode 1: Pre-Proceedings

Our first episode delves into the profound sense of uncertainty mothers often face at the outset of care proceedings. Listeners will hear firsthand accounts describing the lack of clear information and the overwhelming feeling of being unprepared as court approaches. Through these honest reflections, the episode also highlights the challenges mothers encounter in accessing the support and services that could make a real difference.

The experiences shared are both sobering and motivating, illuminating how vital effective communication and accessible help are in paving the way for meaningful change.

Episode 2: During-Proceedings

Episode 2 gets into the proceedings themselves, highlighting the intense feelings of judgement and shame that often accompany the process. Listeners will hear about the lack of practical and emotional support mothers experience, and the need for compassionate, non-judgmental, buddy-style assistance during this journey.

The episode also explores the sense of exclusion families face - brought on by complicated legal language, difficulty accessing online meetings, and technical barriers - which can make a daunting experience even more isolating. Through candid stories and honest reflection, this episode offers a window into the challenges of care proceedings and emphasises the importance of a more supportive, accessible system for all.

Episode 3: Post-Proceedings

In this episode, Claire, Hannah and Vanessa share their experiences of rebuilding their lives after the proceedings have concluded.

They talk about the significant role that the Pause programme played in supporting them and the power of small acts of kindness. We were able to ask these mothers what changes they would like to suggest to those in positions of power, and hope that by doing so, we have been able to bring their voices and vital perspectives to professionals working in the family justice system and beyond.

What’s clear from these testaments is that the impact of care proceedings lingers far beyond the date of the final court hearing, and despite the life-changing consequences of the decision, with the right support, it is possible to rebuild.

Some of these stories were originally captured in a series of journey maps and a report detailing the experiences and impact of care proceedings on parents and young people. You can find those resources here.