Represented by Simpson Millar’s Public Law and Education Team two families affected brought the legal action amidst ‘significant concerns’ that the council’s decision was unlawful. The Judgment has been handed down and the Court has concluded that the decision making process, completed by Bristol City Council was legally flawed.

Simpson Millar Partner and education law specialist, Samantha Hale commented:

“We had significant concerns that the council did not follow the appropriate procedures and legislation in making these reductions, and did not properly consult those likely to be impacted. The decision shows that the Court shared our concerns, finding in favour of the two families who brought this claim”.

“The Court concluded that the process completed by Bristol City Council before reaching its decision was flawed. Furthermore, the Court confirmed they were unable to determine what the outcome would have been in the absence of the legal errors. The Judge held that “full funding might have been allocated’”.

“Bristol City Council will now have to reconsider its funding allocation to the High Needs Block budget and to do so in a lawful way, as the Court has confirmed that the High Needs Budget will be quashed. This is a very important recognition that while Local Authorities may have to cut budgets, they may only do it, if it is done lawfully”.