Adoption conference praises Plymouth Family Courts

Nearly 150 senior adoption professionals from across the UK attended a major Adoption Conference organised by Michelmores Solicitors and held at the University of Plymouth on Wednesday 22 May.

Speakers included Her Honour Judge Miranda Robertshaw, former Government adviser on adoption; Sir Martin Narey, Chief Executive of Barnardo’s; Anthony Douglas CBE, Chief Executive of CAFCASS; and Professor Julie Selwyn of Bristol University. Delegates were welcomed by Simon Thomas, a partner and head of Michelmores’ family law team.

HHJ Miranda Robertshaw, Designated Family Judge for Plymouth, Torbay and West Devon confirmed Plymouth as being within the top three performing Family Courts in the country for avoiding delay in care proceedings. She eloquently explained to delegates how she avoids delay through "robust case management", good and effective communication, practice and procedure between all agencies – court staff, local authorities, Cafcass, practitioners and lawyers.

Following the conference Sir Martin Narey commented that it had been a very encouraging day and that local authorities and voluntary adoption agencies within the South West are grasping the adoption challenge and changing children’s lives for the better.

The conference was chaired by His Honour Judge William Taylor, Chairman of the Board of Governors at Plymouth University. He said: “The University prides itself upon being enterprising and we were delighted to host a conference illuminating the dynamic and innovative practices of our community and business partners. Special thanks must go to Michelmores Solicitors for sponsoring this successful event.”

Simon Thomas, Head of the Michelmores’ family law team opened the Conference by acknowledging the wealth of talent not only amongst the speakers but also amongst the delegates: “It is our pleasure to work with Plymouth University and facilitate national thought leadership.”