Public matters: January 2025

31 January 2025

Tim Edds

Local Nature Recovery Strategies: A successful step in nature recovery

The publication of England’s first Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to restore biodiversity and align development with nature conservation. This article explores the key features of the newly launched strategy, its implications for planning policy, and the next steps in the broader framework for nature recovery.

Important judgment for social work teams facing ‘failure to remove’ claims

A recent judgment in Woodcock v CC Northamptonshire highlights the challenges social work teams face in 'failure to remove' claims, particularly in cases involving harm caused by third parties. The ruling underscores the importance of gathering strong evidence early, as courts remain cautious about expanding duty of care and Article 3 protections under the European Convention on Human Rights.

Understanding AI: A guide for healthcare professionals

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the healthcare landscape, offering new opportunities to improve patient care, streamline administrative tasks, and enhance diagnostics. This guide provides healthcare professionals with a clear understanding of AI, addressing common concerns and exploring its potential applications within the sector.

Court of Protection update for local authority lawyers

The Court of Protection continues to emphasise the importance of clear, well-structured care plans in determining the best interests of vulnerable individuals. Two recent cases highlight the need for local authorities to prioritise comprehensive care planning while maintaining transparency and compliance with court directions.

Government launches adult social care commission

The UK government has launched an independent commission to reform adult social care, aiming to build a national care service that meets the needs of older and disabled people. While the sector welcomes the initiative, concerns have been raised that the long timeline could result in years of inaction rather than immediate improvements.

Report: Risk management in local government

Local governments are navigating an increasingly complex risk landscape, from financial pressures to emerging threats like cyber-attacks and climate change. Our latest report, developed in partnership with LGiU and ALARM, explores how councils are adapting their risk management strategies to safeguard essential public services and build long-term resilience.

Mock inquest training course

Delivered virtually over a series of lunchtime modules, the course takes you through the inquest process from start to finish with insights, lectures and mock inquest scenarios delivered by a host of expert speakers including 5 experienced Coroners. The course provides practical advice and guidance on reporting deaths and certification, writing reports for the Coroner and giving oral evidence in court or remotely.

It includes several mock in-person inquests and a mock remote inquest hearing to provide a realistic experience of an inquest hearing from opening to conclusion and shares best practice when dealing with inquest hearings. The course also considers the wider implications of an inquest for the organisations and professionals involved, looking at media coverage, compensation claims, disciplinary and professional implications.

The next course will run in March and April. All modules are recorded and can be watched on catch-up, offering maximum flexibility to fit around professional commitments.

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New employer duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace

With the new Worker Protection Act 2023 requiring employers to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, businesses must now implement clear policies, training, and reporting procedures to stay compliant. Our Preventing Sexual Harassment at Work Toolkit provides expert guidance, sector-specific training, and practical resources to help employers navigate these legal changes, foster a culture of safety and respect, and reduce the risk of costly tribunal claims.

Shared Insights: Duty of Candour

During this session we will discuss the Department of Health and Social Care’s recently published findings of the call for evidence on the statutory duty of candour.

Shared Insights: Coroner's Question Time

Join us for our regular Coroner’s Question Time. One of our most popular Shared Insights events, this session will be chaired by Nicola Evans, Partner at Browne Jacobson.