The Welsh Senedd recently discussed the future of Family Drug and Alcohol Courts (FDACs) following the conclusion of a two-year pilot program funded with £450,000 by the Welsh Government. Evaluated by CASCADE at Cardiff University, the pilot demonstrated positive outcomes, suggesting FDACs can be a beneficial alternative to traditional care proceedings. According to the evaluation, the problem-solving model saves costs, with each case costing £18,000 but delivering average direct benefits of over £74,000. The approach focuses on keeping families together while addressing substance misuse issues, earning praise from family justice stakeholders.

Moving forward, a working group has been established to determine the scalability and sustainability of FDACs across Wales. This group, representing key stakeholders, is expected to deliver recommendations by the summer, including how the program can integrate with existing family support services. Despite frustrations over the timeline, the Welsh Government has confirmed its commitment to exploring how the FDAC model can improve long-term outcomes for families.

Further details are available at TheyWorkForYou.