Navigating Family Law Podcast Episode 16: Alternative Carers in Care Proceedings (1 December 2025)

When parents cannot care for their child, grandparents, relatives or close family friends may be able to help.

In our latest podcast, Duncan Lewis Family Solicitors explore the legal process with leading barrister Eesa Khan.

When care proceedings begin, one of the most pressing questions families face is, if a child cannot stay with their parents, who else might be able to care for them? Understanding the role of alternative carers — and what is involved in being assessed — can make a confusing and emotional process feel more manageable.

In our latest Navigating Family Law podcast, Episode 16: Alternative Carers in Care Proceedings – A Practical Legal Guide, Solicitors Natasha Patel and Emily Rand from our Family & Childcare team sit down with Barrister Eesa Khan, of Northampton Chambers, to discuss this crucial part of care proceedings.

Tune in now to hear the team discuss:

• What an alternative carer is — and who might be considered
• When courts consider alternative carers instead of foster care or adoption
• The Initial Viability Assessment (IVA) process explained
• What potential carers should think about before stepping forward
• How to challenge a negative assessment

This episode is aimed at helping parents, relatives and carers be more informed and empowered during a process that can feel overwhelming and uncertain.

Listen here: Episode 16 – Navigating Family Law: Alternative Carers in Care Proceedings – A Practical Legal Guide

Catch Up on Recent Highlights

Episode 15: Understanding Parenting Assessments with a Social Worker

Assessments often feel overwhelming and intrusive. Our team sits down with Jamie Barton from ParentAssess to explore what these assessments really involve, how they can be tailored to individual circumstances, and why they don't have to be something to fear. This episode focuses on understanding, not judgment — helping parents see their strengths and recognise where support is needed.

Episode 14: Navigating Family Law: What is Vicarious Trauma?

Ever felt burnout or compassion fatigue in a caring profession? This episode explores the hidden emotional toll of working in family law, nursing, social care and other support roles — where helping others can come at a personal cost. Special guest Michelle Christie, leading barrister, yoga teacher and studio owner, joins our team to discuss what vicarious trauma really means, why caring professionals are at risk, and practical strategies to protect your wellbeing and build resilience

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Episode 13: Private Children Law Proceedings Explained (2025)

What happens when parents can't agree on their child's care? Our team breaks down private children law proceedings step by step — from living arrangements and schooling to holidays and safeguarding concerns. We explore the different court orders available, explain the role of CAFCASS (the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service), and reveal what judges actually consider when making decisions that affect children's lives.

About the Podcast

Navigating Family Law is brought to you by the award-winning Family & Child Care team at Duncan Lewis Solicitors — named Family Law Firm of the Year (London) at the LexisNexis Awards 2024. Each episode breaks down complex family law issues in plain English, with expert insight and a compassionate approach.

Need Legal Advice?

If you're going through care proceedings or need support with a family law matter, our experienced team is here to help. Contact Duncan Lewis Solicitors on 0333 772 2409 or visit www.duncanlewis.co.uk for confidential advice.