Public matters: February 2026

Navigating the expansion of foster care

As fostering arrangements expand, local authorities face both legal risks and opportunities. Our latest guidance explores the emerging challenges and sets out practical steps to help you navigate them with confidence.

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High Street Rental Auctions: Do they have a future?

We digest the opinions of various pilot councils from our webinar series with Lambert Smith Hampton. Explore the real-world implications and practical challenges emerging from HSRAs.

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Historical abuse litigation: A changing landscape

AB v Leicestershire County Council was dismissed under current law. However, local authorities and institutional defendants must prepare for the Crime and Policing Bill, which will likely fundamentally transform historical child sexual abuse litigation.

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Changes to below-threshold procurements for local authorities

New powers allow local authorities to restrict below-threshold procurements to UK or local suppliers. This change offers greater flexibility for authorities seeking to support local economies and UK businesses.

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New contract payment reporting requirements 

New payment reporting rules under Section 70 of the Procurement Act 2023 will take effect from 1 April 2026. The regime represents a significant development in public procurement governance.

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U-turn on council election postponement

The UK Government has confirmed it has withdrawn its decision to postpone 30 local elections that are due to take place in May 2026. Laura Hughes, Partner and Head of Public Law, comments on the news. Laura is also quoted in Local Government Lawyer.

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Employment law updates

Employment Rights Act

Our employment lawyers continue to watch the developments of the Act. Recently, we've covered key updates including the revised implementation timeline, changes to statutory sick pay and recapped the key reforms that came into force this month.  

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Can a volunteer be a worker? Guidance from the Court of Appeal

In Maritime and Coastguard Agency v Groom, the Court of Appeal held that a volunteer coastguard rescue officer had the employment status of a worker. We explain the Court of Appeal’s decision and what this means for employers. 

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In the media

Latest chapter in planning policy reform

In a double announcement, the government has revised planning policy and green-lit new legislation, with hopes of making a dent in its 1.5 million new homes target. Ben Standing examines the key themes from the twin-track reforms in PBC Today.

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Lessons from PFIs: How will they shape funding for NHS neighbourhood health centres?

Craig Elder is quoted in Building Better Healthcare on the role of private finance in the delivery of the NHS’s neighbourhood health centres, explaining the shortcomings of historic PFI models.

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Government frameworks

Our team has been appointed across a range of public sector procurement frameworks - meaning that you can have instant access to our services, at a fair price and without the need for any additional due diligence. 

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