Caroline Croft, barrister with Coram Chambers and co-founder of FLANC, recently participated in two notable discussions, shedding light on how neurodiverse individuals navigate the family justice system and the essential tools available for practitioners to support them.
In a recent gathering hosted by the Family Mediation Council, Caroline, alongside Elizabeth Fletcher, engaged in a virtual coffee morning where they explored the innovative FLANC x FLiP dispute resolution toolkit. This resource has been specifically designed for family lawyers, barristers, mediators, and arbitrators who wish to provide the best support to neurodiverse clients accessing non-court dispute resolution (NCDR) processes.
Caroline expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting the toolkit’s potential to empower practitioners to recognise and address the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals face. The toolkit is accessible online here.
Just a few days after, Caroline had the pleasure of speaking at the Devon Resolution Conference, an event that gathered legal professionals dedicated to improving the family justice system. With heartfelt appreciation, she noted the exceptional organisation of the conference by Benitia Knowles-Wright and the team, emphasising the warmth and hospitality extended to her and other attendees. The elegant venue and vibrant company contributed to what Caroline deemed a ‘wonderful time’ of sharing insights and networking.
The importance of focusing on neurodiversity in the legal landscape cannot be overstated, as advocates like Caroline and her colleagues at FLANC work tirelessly to ensure that all voices are heard and understood. A fellow attendee, Benitia Knowles-Wright from Stephens Scown, echoed this sentiment, expressing how vital it is to draw attention to neurodiversity in the court system.
As Caroline continues to champion these crucial conversations, her contributions at events such as the Devon Resolution Conference and through resources like the FLANC x FLiP toolkit underscore a growing recognition of the need for inclusivity within legal practice. It’s an ongoing journey, one marked by dedication and a shared vision for a more understanding and responsive justice system.
