In December 2025, our legal team concluded a case supporting Sara, a young woman who sustained a traumatic brain injury at the age of 16 and has since been left with complex health needs, including profound communication challenges. Sara is unable to communicate through speech, writing, or gesture, and can only indicate “yes” or “no” through blinking, which significantly limits her ability to express needs and participate in conversations. 

Following an intensive three-day hearing covering all three government departments’ appeals, the cases have been adjourned. The First Tier Information Rights Tribunal has requested additional evidence from two government departments. The hearings will be relisted for further evidence which may happen from the New Year onwards. We remain keen to progress these cases to achieve greater transparency on the vital decision making processes that determine social care funding.

In her latest article for the MJ our CEO, Kari Gerstheimer highlights ASC's radical approach to data.

Southend Council is refunding £2.3 million after overcharging 586 people care due to a software error dating back to 2018. At Access Social Care, we welcome the refunds but urge councils to audit their systems and ensure people have access to independent advice to protect their benefits and rights.

Access Social Care are setting out to address the lack of new practitioners coming into Community Care legal practice with opportunities for law students to learn about this area of law and gain real life experience.