Caroline Barrett

Our attention at IPSEA has been caught by two things recently: a succession of “innovations” by individual LAs, and an inadequate level of scrutiny in Parliament regarding the experiences of children & young people who depend on the SEND system. So, what’s been happening?🧵[1/10]

Did you know that we offer an ‘EHCP Health Check’ service? It is intended to help parents resolve issues with their child’s #EHCP and provide initial advice ahead of an #AnnualReview. You can find out more here: rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/new-fixed-fee-…

Hackney Council has accepted its consultation to close “much-loved” children’s centres is unlawful, days before the final hearing in our clients' case was due to take place. Counsel @SteveBroach @jake_thorold @39essex were instructed. rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/hackney-counci…

"This proactive approach reflects a forward-thinking attitude in an industry known for high burnout rates. Rook Irwin Sweeney’s initiative signifies a promising shift towards sustainable work models without sacrificing client satisfaction." @4Day_Week financial-news.co.uk/rook-irwin-swe…

We’re delighted to be recognised in @ChambersGuides once again this year as "a team of lawyers who not only know their stuff, but conduct themselves with a level of compassion and commitment that is, in our experience, unparalleled.” Thanks to all who gave feedback. [1/2]

We're delighted to announce that Rosie Campbell has been promoted to the role of Associate Solicitor. Rosie has substantial expertise in Court of Protection, community care and judicial review claims, and is an integral part of our team. We're proud to recognise her promotion!

We are at the @covidinquiryuk this week acting for the Disabilities Charities Consortium (“DCC”) where public hearings in Module 3 are beginning, examining the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on healthcare systems in the UK rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/disability-cha… 1/4

@OlliePersey Congratulations Ollie! Fantastic news and very well deserved 👏🏻

We are instructed on behalf of a child in #Devon in an application for #judicialreview against Devon County Council, challenging its decision to enter into a ‘safety valve agreement’ with the Department for Education. @OlliePersey acts as counsel. [1/2]

Our clients' application for permission for judicial review challenging Devon County Council's decision to close 'lifeline' mental health services will be heard at the High Court today - you can read more about their case below rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/legal-challeng…

Happy to be attending the @FrenkelTopping 20th anniversary #DeputyDay24 Conference at The British Library today. Great conversations about how we can help #deputyship clients access #education #healthcare & #socialcare!

Getting early advice on an #EHCP can be critical, and so we're pleased to offer a fixed-fee #EHCP Health Check service to parents. Find out more here: rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/new-fixed-fee-… #SEND #Education #AnnualReview

A child can only be legally excluded from school for disciplinary reasons. Any other exclusions are illegal, and we want them to stop. Find out more here: ow.ly/TbVf50RgWiY #exclusions

Next week our @cazza_bee and @jen_t_wright are in the High Court with counsel @SteveBroach and @kerbarnes challenging part of the government’s consultation on the SEND Green Paper, about reforms to the way students with #SEND are supported. [1/3]

We are delighted that the Secretary of State for Education has conceded that the current position regarding children with EOTAS accessing Free School Meals (FSMs) is potentially discriminatory and is taking urgent steps to rectify the position.

Join us! We are recruiting for a full time Paralegal to assist with the firm’s work. Legal qualification (e.g. law degree) and/or relevant experience at another law firm required. Apply by 5pm on 18 January 2024 - further details here: rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/careers/

Latest SEND Tribunal stats published today by @MoJGovUK show more appeals than ever, with an astonishing 98% of cases decided by the Tribunal last year going against local authorities. It couldn't be clearer that unlawful decision-making is endemic. 1/2 #annual-special-educational-needs-and-disability-send-statistics" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">gov.uk/government/sta…

The High Court has today found LB Hackney in breach of its duties to assess and provide social care to our client TS, a disabled child - full story and link to judgment below. @alexrook1 & Rosie Campbell instructed alongside @stevebroach & Ella Grodzinski rookirwinsweeney.co.uk/high-court-fin…

@EmmaEarnshaw_IM Lovely photo 😊

Personal news: will be changing my name shortly!