Off-grid UK-Australian couple describe ‘anguish’ at removal of children by Italian court
An Italian court has approved a gradual reunification plan for a UK-Australian couple whose children were removed from their off-grid home due to concerns over hygiene and schooling. The case has sparked international debate regarding state intervention in alternative lifestyles.
Why it matters
The case highlights the tension between parental rights to choose alternative lifestyles and the state's duty to ensure child welfare and education.
‘We are deeply saddened’ … Nathan Trevallion and Catherine Birmingham were raising their three children off-grid in Italy ‘We are deeply saddened’ … Nathan Trevallion and Catherine Birmingham were raising their three children off-grid in Italy Italy Off-grid UK-Australian couple describe ‘anguish’ at removal of children by Italian court After judge allows partial access rights, Catherine Birmingham and Nathan Trevallion say the enforced separation ‘broke each of our hearts’
Prefer the Guardian on Google A couple have told of their heartache, trauma and stress after fighting for two years for their right to parent their children as they choose in the glare of the world’s attention .
The three children of a Melbourne woman, Catherine Birmingham, and her British partner, Nathan Trevallion, were removed from their “ dilapidated ” off-grid home in Italy last year.
It sparked global conversations about state intervention and alternative lifestyles.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in