CASS+ is working with the Devon Family Bench. It was a real honour to be invited to speak to 60 magistrates and judges.

CASS+ and the Devon Family Bench

CASS+ is working with the Devon Family Bench. It was an honour to speak to 60 magistrates and judges at the Exeter Court Hotel.

They heard about our vision and our new work in the Family Courts as a result of funding from the Ministry of Justice and the Access to Justice Foundation.

We enjoyed learning from each other, particularly gathering information about all the mediation services availabe.

Pivotal role of CASS+

We had positive feedback about our pivotal role at court, helping magistrates just as much as our clients. They recognised us for the way we reduce confusion for those without legal support.

We explained how many of our clients don’t know what they should write in statements. It’s a fine line between what they want to say and what the court needs to hear. We explained how we actively listen to the client’s needs, enable them to communicate effectively, and support them to move forward.

One Legal Advisor talked about the positive outcomes from a referral that they had made to the CASS+ team in Newton Abbot.

All are welcome

Our team in Plymouth has been asked to put our leaflets in the retiring room for magistrates. As a result, one of the magistrates has already popped in to our office to introduce themselves.

Anyone is welcome to drop by any time, and magistrates are no exception. We have an open-door policy. It’s in our DNA to reach out, connect and support everyone across the Justice System.

Decreasing demand on the Justice System

Since 2005, we have decreased demand on the Justice System and other services by working with magistrates, solicitors, police, probation, judges, CPS, ushers, court cells, social services, charities, and agencies to guide people towards a more positive future. We believe that with the right emotional and practical support and life-changing opportunities, anyone can reach their potential, resulting in safer communities where everyone can thrive.

As a result, everyone recognised the way we plug the gaps in the system.

Positive feedback

I am writing to thank Patsy and Judy for their excellent presentation yesterday. People have spoken to me about how helpful it was to find out about this new service, and understanding what it can offer…. The presentation was well-considered and well-presented and engaging, so five stars all round. We look forward to working with you in the future, and do let us know if we can assist you at all.

Magistrate and Chair of the Devon Family Panel

CASS+ and the Devon Family Bench

We look forward to working with more judges and magistrates in the future.