S3 Ep06 - Roma & Traveller Families in the Family Courts: Challenges, Misconceptions & Justice

Public Law Children
Written By Isabel Hawkins

The Roma and Traveller communities in the UK have historically faced discrimination, systemic barriers, and deep-rooted misconceptions within the family justice system. Despite legal protections, many families continue to encounter prejudices, lack of cultural understanding, and disproportionate interventions. 


In this episode, we explore: 
— The unique challenges faced by Roma & Traveller families in family law cases 
— The role of cultural misunderstanding & bias in social work and legal proceedings 
— How domestic abuse support & safeguarding differ in these communities 
— The impact of care proceedings & child protection interventions 
— What family law professionals can do to ensure fairer outcomes 

This is an essential conversation for family law practitioners, social workers, policymakers, and advocates working with Roma & Traveller communities. 

Isabel Hawkins

Isabel is a Consultant Barrister at Unit Chambers, having been called to the bar in October 2021. Prior to this, she was a well-respected family law paralegal for a number of years. Isabel prides herself on her ability to connect and build relationships with clients from the first instance and is skilled at putting clients at ease and guiding them through the Court process.

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S3 Ep07 - Pensions on Divorce: What family practitioners need to know
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S3 Ep05 - Honour-Based Violence in the Family Courts: Protecting Vulnerable Individuals