A bit late..........

I do like this chap (Martin Narey) at Barnardo’s – indeed we like the charity; definitely one of the better ones, in Wilt’s opinion.

However he is a little ‘come lately’ on this subject matter: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-10908026

There is a further article here: http://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115067/children-harmed-by-long-delays-in-family-courts-charity-finds.htm

Wit and others predicted this situation (delays) pre the implementation of the Children Act 1989 – Wilt recalls implementation day on 14^th October 1991; it is etched in his memory. It was a well intentioned Act but by the mid 1990’s it was very, very apparent that it was failing in one of its primary concerns – that delay in making decisions on solutions for children was harmful.

And why?

Well, it is simple – the Act was hailed as the “children’s charter” but it was everything but giving, in practice, ‘paramount’ concern for the child. It transpired a lucrative avenue of income source, in order, for:

i)             Lawyers (especially for parents)

ii)            Children’s Guardians (and their lawyers)

iii)           Expert witnesses who seemed to grow out of the walls

One could not move for lawyers (some simple “fee earners”), Guardians (some of limited credibility and less competence) and so called ‘Experts.’ Some of the experts appeared to be close friends or even relatives or business partners of the Guardian.

And where was the child in all this?

“Who the fuck is the child” we hear cried – “what does it have to do with them” it is exclaimed!”

So, Barnardo’s, where were you in 1995 – its 2010 (15 years later) and you now complain?

A bit late, me thinks but your observations are belatedly welcome.

Wilt