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Are you a parent, kinship carer relative or friend of a child who is involved with, or who needs the help of, children’s services in England? We can help you understand processes and options when social workers or courts are making decisions about your child’s welfare.

Our advice service is free, independent and confidential.

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To speak to an adviser, please call our free and confidential advice line 0808 801 0366 (Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3pm, excluding Bank Holidays). Or you can ask us a question via email using our advice enquiry form.

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Our online advice forums are an anonymous space where parents and kinship carers (also known as family and friends carers) can get legal and practical advice, build a support network and learn from other people’s experiences.

Advice on our website

Our get help and advice section has template letters, advice sheets and resources about legal and social care processes. On Monday and Thursday afternoons, you can use our webchat service to chat online to an adviser.

 

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Family Rights Group
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Family Rights Group Welcomes Cathy Ashley’s Appointment to the House of Lords

Published: 16th July 2026

2 minute read

Family Rights Group would like to congratulate its Chief Executive, Cathy Ashley OBE, on her appointment to the House of Lords. Cathy has been Chief Executive of the charity for 22 years, and her ennoblement recognises her tireless work and advocacy on behalf of children and families.

Headshot of Kate MorrisFamily Rights Group chair Kate Morris said:

“The trustees, staff and supporters of Family Rights Group are delighted that Cathy’s many years of working to support children and their families has been recognised and we congratulate her. Cathy has made a real difference to the services children and their families receive. Under her leadership the charity has consistently been recognised for its expertise and authority, for the way it works collaboratively with children, families and practitioners and for developing one of the most successful innovations in children’s social care in the last decade – Lifelong Links. The charity recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and has a level of impact much larger than you’d expect from a charity of its size – a testament to its strong team.”

Cathy is expected to take her seat in the Lords sometime in the Autumn. Family Rights Group’s board and leadership will work with Cathy to ensure the charity continues to grow and develop as she takes on her new responsibilities.

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