CCG faces legal action over decision to close respite centre

Law firm Irwin Mitchell has launched a legal challenge against Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group (HVCCG) over its decision to close the Nascot Lawn respite care centre.

A petition to keep the centre open has gained almost 14,500 signatures.

Nascot Lawn will now remain open until Irwin Mitchell’s challenge on behalf of users is heard by the High Court.

The firm has argued that the CCG misunderstood its legal responsibilities, including under the National Health Services Act and the Equality Act, as there was an unlawful failure to consult with families affected and a breach of the children’s human rights.

Partner Alex Rook said: “The CCG has failed to undertake a consultation with families before reaching this decision, which they say was taken in order to save over £650,000 per year.

“We believe that the HVCCG has not properly considered their legal duties before reaching this decision, and our clients say that had they properly understood the impact it will have on these very vulnerable children and their families, they would not have made this decision.”

A spokesperson for the CCG said the matter was being considered by its lawyers.

Mark Smulian