Lessons from the Abrahart Case- Webinar

The “problem with the University’s reliance on its own Regulations and policies… was that they are not the law. They were subject to the law, including the requirements of the Equality Act 2010.” (Mr Justice Lindon, Feb 2024).

In a landmark case in February 2024, the High Court upheld an earlier judgement from May 2022, that the University of Bristol failed to make reasonable adjustments for Natasha Abrahart, a 20-year-old female student who suffered social anxiety. Natasha took her own life in April 2018 on the day she was due to give a presentation in a 329-seat lecture theatre. The ruling concluded that Natasha had been indirectly discriminated against on the grounds of disability, contrary to the Equality Act 2010.

This tragic case serves as a poignant reminder for higher education providers to reassess their policies and procedures, ensuring they are robust and effective, particularly in accommodating students with known mental health issues. While the court did not explicitly define the duty of care, its decision prompts critical discussions about institutions’ obligations and empowers students to assert their rights when facing similar challenges.

Aims:

• To stimulate thought and reflection on the Natasha Abrahart case and encourage critical examination of current practices within higher education providers concerning support for students with disabilities, particularly mental health difficulties.
• To assess the effectiveness of communication strategies within higher education providers regarding disability awareness, reasonable adjustments, and proper procedures for notifying staff.
• To highlight the accountability of institutions in addressing students’ mental health-related needs and the consequences of failing to do so adequately.

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