HMCTS, 'Safety and security in hospitals and trusts' (letter to MHLA, 4/4/24)
Remote hearings This letter states that from 8/4/24, for "health and safety" reasons, all hearings at venues that have not confirmed compliance with the minimum safety and security requirements will be held by video link. Of over 820 venues contacted (in February 2024), 150 stated that they cannot comply, and others have not yet replied. Representations can be made if there is "a particular medical or other reason that the patient cannot have a VH hearing" and directions might include "reasonable adjustments or a transfer to a suitable hospital".