Independent Social Worker & Expert Witness

Over 25 years’ experience supporting children and families

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Notebook of independent social worker Jeffrey Baker
NAGALRO certified
Social Work England – Registration No. SW20157
British Association of Social Workers (BASW) – Member No. 169178

Jeffrey Baker

Independent Social Worker & Expert Witness

Photo of Jeffrey Baker, independent social worker and expert witness

Independent Social Worker and Expert Witness with over 25 years’ experience, including extensive work within the Family Court and more than a decade providing expert testimony across the UK.

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Services

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Parenting & Family Assessments

In-depth assessments of parenting capacity and family dynamics within public law care proceedings, focusing on strengths, risks, child welfare, attachment, and the ability of parents or carers to meet children’s needs in complex circumstances involving the Local Authority. Findings are presented in a clear, evidence-based report to assist the court.

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Section 7 Reports (Private Law)

Independent welfare reports prepared for the Family Court in private law proceedings between separated parents. These assessments consider the children’s welfare, wishes and feelings, the capacity of each parent to meet their needs, and the family dynamics affecting them. I provide advice to the court on appropriate child arrangements, including where children should live, the time they should spend with each parent, and any specific issues affecting their welfare.

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Consultations for Parents

Independent consultations offering separated parents a space to reflect on their circumstances and consider their next steps. I provide guidance on children’s welfare, navigating communication with the other parent, and exploring options for resolving issues without court proceedings or deciding whether to seek legal advice.

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Complaints Investigations

Independent investigations of concerns and complaints relating to children and social work practice, or safeguarding within statutory or voluntary organisations that work with children and families. I provide clear, objective reviews of the evidence, and detailed findings to support accountability and resolution.

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Supervised & Assessed Contact

Supervision and assessment of contact sessions between children and parents, observing the quality of interaction, attachment, and the child’s welfare during time spent together. Observations are recorded in clear, objective reports to assist professionals and the court in determining safe and appropriate child arrangements.

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Mediation Services

Support for families to resolve disputes over child arrangements, and improve communication, helping to reach practical agreements in the best interests of the child. I mediate with families who are actively trying to reach agreements to avoid court or who are already in proceedings and trying to resolve matters to avoid further litigation. I do not do MIAM appointments.

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  • "I am grateful...to Mx Baker for their thoughtful, balanced, and child-focused evidence."

    — District Judge, Private Law proceedings, 2025

  • "As far as the oral evidence is concerned, I formed the impression that Jeffrey Baker was a hugely impressive witness. Their report, it was clear to me, was clearly independent, uninfluenced and impartial. They are an expert."

    — District Judge, Private Law proceedings, 2021

  • "...the judge was highly complimentary of your report and evidence in his judgment. He made it very clear that you were not in the slightest bit biased or unfair and that you had shown great intelligence, insight and experience and that he found you very impressive. Thank you so much for all your hard work in this case.”

    — Solicitor in Private Law proceedings, 2019

  • "Thank you for all of your help and support over the last few months, it really has changed mine and the kids lives. I didn’t think I’d ever see them again properly. Can’t ever thank you enough!"

    — Parent, Private Law proceedings, 2025

  • "I accept Mx Baker’s assessment of the mother, which I found to be balanced and fair...I accept many of the observations...about the value for the court of Mx Baker’s evidence."

    — Circuit Judge, Public Law proceedings, 2017

  • "The thoroughness, thoughfulness and nuance of your report was highly praised by the Judge and my counsel. Thank you for your professionalism and support through the process."

    — Parent, Private Law proceedings, 2025

  • "I would like to record my thanks, on [the child's] behalf, for your report, which was instrumental in helping to achieve this outcome."

    — Barrister for the child, Public Law proceedings, 2019

Get in touch today for more information and to have a discussion.

email: jeffrey@independentsocialworker.org.uk | phone: +44 783 3710 328