Pathways to Peace - Family Court Help

29/01/2026

https://www.rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/family-law-information/pathfinder/

This guide is for people involved in children cases in the Pathfinder areas to help you understand the process.

14/01/2026

📢 Important Update for Parents Using Co-Parenting Apps: AppClose, OurFamilyWizard & TalkingParents 📱👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Dear parents and co-parents — please take a moment to read this important update on co-parenting communication tools many families rely on. These changes could affect how you plan, communicate and keep records:

🔔 1. AppClose Is No Longer Fully Free
AppClose — previously free — has introduced a subscription model for full access. Messaging, calendars and shared tools may now require payment after any trial period. If cost is a concern, check your settings and plan ahead.

💷 2. OurFamilyWizard (OFW) — Subscription Costs
OurFamilyWizard is a paid co-parenting app, with typical costs of approximately:
• £107–£215 per year per parent (depending on plan)

It offers structured communication, shared calendars, expense tracking and court-ready records. Each parent usually needs their own subscription.

🆓 3. TalkingParents — Still Free (For Now)
TalkingParents still offers a free web-based option for core communication features. However, many advanced tools and the mobile app experience are paid, and there are rumours within parenting communities that the free option may change in the future. At present, the free service remains available — but it’s wise to stay informed.

📍 Why This Matters
These apps are often referenced in parenting plans and court orders. Changes in cost can affect access, communication, and record-keeping — especially if one parent cannot or chooses not to pay.

👉 What You Can Do Now
✔ Check your app settings and subscriptions
✔ Look into discounts or hardship options where available
✔ Discuss communication arrangements with your co-parent
✔ Stay informed about future updates

13/01/2026

Here is some more information on the Pathfinder Pilot and how it differs to the standard court process.

This was introduced to Southampton court on the 6th January 2026.

You can read the full article here:

https://chroniclelaw.co.uk/blogs/2025/12/05/the-pathfinder-family-court-pilot-reforming-private-law-children-proceedings/

13/01/2026

🔍 What Is the Pathfinder Pilot – and How Is It Different from Traditional Child Arrangements?
The Pathfinder pilot is a new approach being used in some family courts to improve how decisions are made about children following parental separation. Its focus is on early intervention, child safety, and reducing conflict.
⚖️ How is it different from the traditional process?
Traditional child arrangements procedure:
Parents usually apply to court first
CAFCASS becomes involved later
Safeguarding concerns may emerge gradually
Cases can be lengthy and adversarial
The Pathfinder pilot:
Early information sharing between the court, CAFCASS, and local authorities
Safeguarding concerns identified at the start
One coordinated, child-focused plan
Fewer hearings where possible
Greater emphasis on problem-solving rather than blame
✅ Pros of the Pathfinder Pilot
Earlier safeguarding for children
Child-focused decision-making
Less adversarial, reducing stress for families
Faster outcomes in many cases
Joined-up working between agencies
⚠️ Cons / Challenges
Limited availability in selected court areas
Reduced sense of parental control early on
Concerns about information sharing
Ongoing adjustment as the pilot develops
Not suitable for every case
🌱 Why it matters
Pathfinder aims to reduce harm, delay, and conflict by addressing issues early, while keeping children at the centre of the process.