Religion & Culture in the Court of Protection - Key Considerations & Guidance

Introduction

In recent years, the Court of Protection has grappled increasingly with the role of religion and culture in the determination of a protected party’s (‘P’s’) best interests.

Matters have included P’s residence and care, and there has also been a number of high-profile cases where the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment - from both adults and children - has been opposed on the basis of religious beliefs regarding the sanctity of life.

By reference to recent case law, this new virtual classroom seminar will explore how the Court of Protection is approaching issues of religion and culture as part of its determination of P’s best interests.

You will leave this session feeling more confident in supporting and advising clients (including P, family members, health and social care bodies, placements) and making representations to the court when these issues arise.

The session is suitable for lawyers who act in the Court of Protection, as well as health and social care professionals.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive session will cover the following:

• A refresher on the legal framework for determining best interests
• Placements that are more religiously/culturally aligned to P
• How the Court of Protection has determined whether religious observances are in P’s best interests (e.g., fasting, pubic and axillary hair trimming)
• Religious objections to the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment from adults and children

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.