Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Deferred
Include evaluation of judicial recruitment offer in any County Court review, assessing pay and conditions.
Conclusion
Any review into the County Court must include an evaluation of its judicial recruitment offer. This has to consider pay and progression opportunities, an assessment of the current working conditions, and evaluate the regional recruitment initiatives. (Recommendation, Paragraph 65)
Government Response Summary
The government stated it is developing an accessibility strategy for courts and tribunals services and investing over £1 million in lift replacement projects in 2025/26, but did not address the recommendation for a review of the County Court's judicial recruitment offer.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Accept in part. While HMCTS acknowledges that accessibility in the County Court remains a challenge, we are taking a comprehensive, organisation-wide approach to address it. An accessibility strategy is currently being developed, covering all aspects of the courts and tribunals services—including estates, property, digital systems, and reasonable adjustments. As a first step, we will prioritise courts that are currently inaccessible, supported by a detailed action plan to guide enhancements wherever feasible. We are also investing over £1 million in 2025/26 in lift replacement projects across the County Court estate, including at Brighton County Court, Milton Keynes County and Family Court, and Hastings County and Family Court.