Current Research
Past Research
Research into how contact is maintained between a left-behind parent and the child following a successful application for leave to remove the child to a foreign jurisdiction
The reunite relocation research was a one year project, undertaken by Dr. Marilyn Freeman, and funded by the Ministry of Justice.
It built on the earlier research of the reunite Research Unit into the effects of international child abduction where the parents spoke of their disquiet over the way in which relocation matters are addressed. Such problems do not solely exist within this jurisdiction and we are part of a global awareness of this issue, working closely with those involved internationally in these matters.
The reunite relocation research report was launched at a reception at 29 Bedford Row on 7th July 2009 which was attended by members of the judiciary, international academics, researchers and practitioners, as well as representatives of government departments, demonstrating the keen interest which exists in this work. The research concerned 34 cases, a small sample, but nonetheless an important indication of the concerns which relocation raises and, although small, there is no reason to suggest that the results are untypical. The research has shown the serious effects which relocation has on the adults involved. What is now urgently required is research into the effects of relocation on the children concerned in order that policy, in this crucially important area, may be informed by a scientific research base. We hope to shortly undertake such research.
Click here to download a full copy of the report.
Click here to download the Payne v Payne full judgment.