Family law professionals, members of the judiciary and local support organisations came together at Fresh Futures’ Family Time Centre for a special networking and learning event designed to strengthen understanding of services available to children and families across Kirklees and the wider region.
The event, organised collaboratively by Eaton Smith Solicitors and Fresh Futures, welcomed representatives from legal practices across the region, alongside two District Judges who led an open question-and-answer session on current issues affecting the family justice system and the importance of effective support services for families.
Attendees also learned more about Fresh Futures’ Family Time service, which provides safe, child-focused environments where children can spend time with parents and family members when arrangements cannot take place independently. A guided tour of the Family Time Centre provided legal professionals with the opportunity to see the service in action and gain greater insight into the experiences of the children and families it supports.
The event aimed to increase awareness of the Family Time service and strengthen links between legal professionals and local family support providers. Feedback demonstrated the impact of the day, with 100% of attendees agreeing that the event had increased their awareness of the service and improved their understanding of the support Fresh Futures provides to families. Additionally, every attendee indicated they would be likely or very likely to recommend the service.
Many participants highlighted the opportunity to hear directly from members of the judiciary, tour the facility and gain practical insight into the service as the most valuable aspects of the event.
Katie Shephard, Head of Engagement at Fresh Futures, said:
“It was fantastic to welcome so many local legal professionals and members of the judiciary to Fresh Futures. Family Time plays a vital role in supporting children and families during what can often be challenging circumstances, and events like this help build understanding of the service and the positive difference it can make. The engagement from attendees and the feedback received demonstrate how valuable these opportunities are in strengthening awareness and collaboration across the sector.”
Zahra Nawaz, Partner and Solicitor, Family Law at Eaton Smith Solicitors, added:
“As family law professionals, we often work alongside a wide range of organisations that provide vital support to children and families. However, there is no substitute for seeing a service first-hand and understanding the environment, expertise and care that sits behind it.
This event provided a valuable opportunity to bring together legal professionals, members of the judiciary and the Fresh Futures team to strengthen knowledge, share experiences and build relationships. Ultimately, greater understanding of the support available locally helps us make more informed recommendations and better serve the families who place their trust in us.”
Eaton Smith and Fresh Futures hope the event will strengthen ongoing collaboration between legal professionals and family support services, helping ensure that children and families can access the right support at the right time
Image provided by Eaton smith Solicitors
