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Jenny Beck (KC) Hon appointed Chair of the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory

The Nuffield Foundation has appointed Jenny Beck as Chair of the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory’s board.


The Nuffield Family Justice Observatory (NFJO) supports better outcomes for children in the family justice system in England and Wales by improving the use of data and research evidence in decision-making. It is supported by a governing board with members representing all parts of the family justice system, who provide a counsel and challenge to the NFJO team.

Jenny Beck is a family lawyer, founding partner and Director of Beck Fitzgerald, committed to accessible and fair justice and the rights of the individual. Jenny specialises in all aspects of family law with particular interest in complex cases concerning children. Recognising that family breakdown involves so much more than the law, Jenny is committed to working with clients to understand and support their needs to help achieve results which are fair.

As Chair, Jenny will guide the strategic goals of our board to ensure the Nuffield FJO achieves maximum impact for children and families. She will also lead the board to be as effective as it can be, as well as acting as an ambassador for the organisation. Jenny will also work closely with the director, Lisa Harker.

The NFJO is fully funded and hosted by the Nuffield Foundation and, as such, responsibility rests with the Trustee Board of the Nuffield Foundation, allowing the NFJO Board to focus on strategy and development.

Jenny Beck (KC) Hon said:

“I am looking forward to working with the board, which is made up of diverse and talented individuals from across the family justice system, building on the successes it has already achieved. We will continue to act with purpose to support genuine impact for children and families at a critical moment in their lives.”

Tim Gardam, Chief Executive of the Nuffield Foundation said: 

“The founding Chair, Sir James Munby, has come to the end of his term, and we thank him for his influence and impact in leading the observatory since its inception. Since it started four years ago, the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory has established itself as a highly respected, innovative, and influential organisation in its field, putting data and evidence at the heart of the family justice system. We warmly welcome Jenny and look forward to her contribution building on progress so far.”

Sir Ernest Ryder, Nuffield Foundation Trustee said:

“I would like to welcome Jenny Beck to the role of Chair of the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory. With expertise in family law, and a deep commitment to making the justice system fairer and more accessible for all, Jenny’s appointment to the Board of Trustees places the NFJO’s mission – to improve the lives of children and families in contact with the justice system – in safe and skilful hands.”

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