Tavistock v Bell

AR notes the recent outcome of the Tavistock v. Bell case.

We note that Gillick competency* came into law in 1985 as a result of a test case on giving under 16 year olds contraception. Pro choice activists are alert to the potential of any undermining of young people’s ability to access abortion care.

We also note, with some concern that the legal team have a history of trying to weaken Gillick competence, working with the Pro Life Alliance.

We will keep a close eye on future developments related to this case.

*Gillick competence definition https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/consent-to-treatment/children/