To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what advice and support is available to a parent with learning difficulties when dealing with cases in the family court.

I have been asked to reply.

In all family cases a parent with learning difficulties has the opportunity to be represented by a legal professional and given advice throughout proceedings.

In public law care proceedings, the parent(s) will be legally represented. The nature of these proceedings mean that local social services will have been involved before the case comes before the court. The particular needs of the parent(s) will be highlighted in the application. Depending upon the circumstances of individual cases, the Official Solicitor may be involved or a lawyer with suitable experience.

In private law proceedings, such as child contact cases, parties can seek a lawyer with suitable experience or the Official Solicitor may become involved if appointed by the court.