New initiative to link journalists with families to increase court reporting

‘Courting Coverage’, an initiative by The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, aims to launch later in 2026.

The organisation said: “Every day, judges in these courts make life-changing decisions relating to some of the most contentious issues in society. But few people beyond those directly involved know what has happened. We want that to change.

“The premise is simple. We’re looking for journalists in England and Wales who are keen to cover family court cases.”

According to The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, everyone who signs up will be included in an interactive map published on its website. The map can then be used by someone going through court proceedings to find the contact details of a local reporter where they live (or where their case is being heard).

The organisation observed that at present, reporters do not know which cases to cover, and the people involved in proceedings do not know how to effectively alert journalists.

It said: “Unlike with other parts of the justice system, reporters aren’t able to check court listings to determine what a case involves and whether it’s worth their time. And it’s not feasible to spend a day in court on the off-chance of finding a newsworthy case. We hope our scheme will help overcome these hurdles.”

Lucy Reed KC, a barrister and trustee of the Transparency Project, said: “I think this resource could make a big difference. There are many parents, both with and without lawyer support, who tell us they would feel safer if an independent observer was at court and actively welcome the attendance of the journalists or legal bloggers. At the moment most of them are unable to obtain that reassurance.”

Lottie Winson