Liverpool has officially launched its Family Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC), joining a growing number of areas across England that are adopting a new approach to care proceedings.
The FDAC model focuses on helping families tackle issues such as substance misuse and domestic abuse, offering a problem-solving, therapeutic alternative to traditional family courts.
This specialist service operates independently of Liverpool City Council and is supported by a multi-disciplinary team with expertise in child protection, mental health, domestic abuse, and addiction.
Its aim is to support parents in addressing the underlying issues that put their families at risk, offering targeted intervention rather than simply overseeing legal processes.
The introduction of FDAC in Liverpool has been championed by His Honour Judge Steven Parker, the Designated Family Judge for Cheshire and Merseyside.
The launch event was held at Liverpool Town Hall and attended by leading figures in family justice, including representatives from the Ministry of Justice, the High Court, and local government.
FDACs have proven to be highly effective since their inception nearly two decades ago. National data shows that over 50 percent of children involved in FDAC cases are reunited with their primary carers, compared to just 12.5 percent in traditional care proceedings.
This model aims to break the cycle of repeated family court involvement by focusing on rehabilitation and sustained change.
In 2024, over 1,000 families were involved in care proceedings through Liverpool’s family court, with one in four cases supported directly by Liverpool City Council.
The launch of FDAC marks a major step forward in efforts to support these families more effectively and keep children safely at home whenever possible.
The launch has been hailed as a transformative moment for Liverpool’s family justice system. Leaders from the judiciary and city council have expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasising the positive impact FDAC is expected to have on families across Merseyside.
The Liverpool FDAC is now fully operational and ready to deliver tailored support to families facing complex challenges. By combining legal oversight with intensive therapeutic intervention, the city aims to improve long-term outcomes for children while reducing the strain on public services.
With national backing and strong local leadership, Liverpool’s FDAC is poised to set a new standard in family care proceedings, offering hope and lasting change to families in need.
